They aren’t on many North American menus, but pests like roaches and arachnids may become a more common food source in the future. In parts of the world where animal meat is scarce, people have long enjoyed eating a variety of healthy, nutritious bugs. Those who advocate the practice believe that edible insects like crunchy crickets, chewy mealworms and juicy locusts could potentially solve hunger problems in underprivileged countries. In Western society, they might be more likely to put an end to binge eating.
The Benefits of Bug-Eating
Insect meat has a lot to offer. It’s inexpensive and easy to process and prepare. With little fat, tons of vitamins and minerals and high-quality protein, it provides near-perfect nutritional balance. If you’re concerned about green living, you should note that bugs emit 10 times less methane and 300 times less nitrous oxide than traditional livestock, so they have a smaller carbon footprint. Most importantly, they’re actually delicious. The idea might be revolting to some, but according to insect gourmands, the little fellows offer a variety of interesting textures and unique flavors.
Finding Great Bug Recipes
The Internet is a great resource for edible insect recipes. With gourmet choices like bee grubs in a creamy coconut sauce, mealworm spaghetti and termite casserole, you’re sure to find something everyone in the family will love. Keep in mind that due to the possibility of unknown contaminants such as pesticides, it’s not necessarily a good idea to go out and collect bugs in your yard and cook them. If you’re interested in bugs as a food source, make sure you purchase from a reputable seller.
Presentation Is Everything
Insect chefs recommend removing the wings, antennae and legs from most bugs before serving. Because of their delicate nature, these appendages often fall off and ruin a good presentation. Besides, getting a stray roach leg trapped between teeth can be a little traumatic for some diners, and the wings of some insects are difficult to chew. To cook and serve an insect properly, you must understand the unique features of the species. For example, when preparing tarantulas, you should burn off the fuzzy hairs that cover their bodies before deep-frying them to crispy perfection.
Skip the Back Yard Buffet
Eating bugs isn’t for everyone, and it’s not safe to start munching on random insects in your yard. Only seasoned bug connoisseurs will know which insects are safe to eat and which are poisonous or likely to carry disease. If you want to experience the thrill of biting into a big, juicy grilled hornworm, it’s best to seek a bug chef who has experience and expertise.
If a poached roach isn’t your idea of a great entree, give us a call. At ABC, we’ve been providing effective, affordable pest control for San Antonio homes and businesses since 1949. Our approach to making bugs disappear doesn’t involve a fork.