Cicadas, the periodical insects that emerge from the ground every 13 or 17 years, are not only known for their distinct sound but also for their culinary potential. These crunchy and protein-rich insects have been a part of various cultures' diets for centuries. If you're feeling adventurous and want to try something new, cicadas offer a unique and sustainable source of protein. This article will guide you through the process of preparing a tasty treat of cicadas, ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
A TASTY TREAT OF CICADAS!!?
If you dare! This is being posted because this is the year of the 17 year Cicadas. And because I wanted to post in a topic going on now at zaar (What is your least popular recipe?). I'm sure I'm not going to make it. And I can't imagine how popular it will be. I found this in a news paper and they got it from food-insects.com. If you dare, use newly hatched cicadas. Because their shells have not hardened yet. I guess like eating a soft shell crab. OK I'm guessing on amounts. The cooking time I'm thinking they are like large shrimp so I figure 3 minutes for cooking. I'm putting it in the Appetizers course even though I don't find it appetizing! You know we'll see by the end of the summer if I make them. They say it's high protein.
Provided by Rita1652
Categories Meat
Time 13m
Yield 5 gutsy people
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Marinate cicadas in Worcestershire sauce at least 1 hours.
- Dip into flour, egg then into breadcrumbs.
- Deep fry and serve with cocktail sauce if you dare.
CICADA CHIPS
A tasty once every 17 year treat. Great for those summer BBQ's when they are everywhere. 1.2 billion per acre I'm sure they are easy to find.
Provided by Yello Kim
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 12m
Yield 2-4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Heat oil in a pan.
- Find the Adult Cicada they are the ones with red eyes and clear colored wings.You can either find them by following their beautiful screeching sound or just locate any tree.
- Leave them as is no need to tear off wings or legs they add to the crispyness.
- Mix together flour and seasonings.
- Mix together milk and egg.
- First dip cicada into egg then into flour mixture. Then drop into oil. Don't worry they wont try to fly away they are too dumb for that.
- Fry them for no longer the 2 minutes.
- Transfer to paper towels. Then serve immediately.
- I like a little hot pepper on mine but you can also use ketchup for the kids.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 275.6, Fat 3.5, SaturatedFat 1.1, Cholesterol 106.8, Sodium 1203.5, Carbohydrate 49.7, Fiber 2.2, Sugar 0.6, Protein 10.2
Tips:
- Select the right cicadas: Choose large, juicy cicadas with a bright green color. Avoid any that are brown or have black spots, as these may be diseased.
- Prepare the cicadas properly: Before cooking, rinse the cicadas thoroughly under cold water. Then, remove the wings and legs, and cut off the heads and abdomens.
- Use high heat: Cicadas cook best at high heat. This will help to seal in the juices and prevent them from becoming tough.
- Don't overcook the cicadas: Cicadas are delicate, so it's important not to overcook them. Otherwise, they will become tough and chewy.
- Season the cicadas well: Cicadas have a mild flavor, so it's important to season them well. Try using a variety of spices and herbs, such as garlic, onion, paprika, and chili powder.
Conclusion:
Cicadas are a delicious and nutritious food source that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you're grilling, frying, or roasting them, there's sure to be a cicada recipe that you'll love. So next time you see a cicada, don't swat it away! Instead, catch it and cook it up for a tasty treat.
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