Most people would agree that insects are unappetizing, but did you know that some people actually eat bugs and enjoy munching on them? It’s true – people who consume insects are practicing entomophagy, which is actually more common that you would think.
Many insects are actually a good (and cheap) source of protein, and while most people eat bugs out of necessity, nowadays some insects are also considered a delicacy. Eating bugs could even help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. So pull up a chair, grab your plate, and read on to learn the top 10 edible insects, based on taste and popularity.
10. Weaver Ants Eggs
Weaver ants eggs are used as a tasty dip or topping for salad and tortilla chips in Thailand. However, they can only be collected one month out of the year, which is a very tedious and painful process. Weaver ants’ eggs are squishy and must be fully cooked before being enjoyed.
9. Giant Water Beetles
Also a popular delicacy in Thailand are Giant Water Beetles. These huge beetles are deshelled and then roasted or fried. Supposedly they taste like scallops.
8. Larvets Worm Snacks
These worms are baked so they have a crunchy texture. They come in a variety of flavors such as BBQ, cheese and Mexican spice.
7. Witchetty Grubs
These large, fleshy, white wood eating moths or beetle larvae are a principal source of protein in the Australian Aboriginal diets. They can either be eaten raw or lightly baked (typically over fire coals.)
6. Crickets
Crickets (along with grasshoppers) are a pretty common bug to be eaten. The general consensus seems to be that they have a nutty flavor, although you can buy them seasoned (such as Crick-ettes brand Cricket snacks, which come in three flavors: Salt and Vinegar, Bacon and Cheese, and Sour Cream and Onion.) In the Northeast area of Thailand, egg-laden crickets (in other words, “pregnant” crickets) are considered a popular and tasty snack.
Up Next: Top 5 Bugs You Didn’t Know You Could Eat
Image credit: Creative Commons photo by erix!
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