It’s undeniable that many Vietnamese enjoy eating a range of insects. The critters are local specialties but may seem a little too ‘creepy’ for the uninitiated. However, with the enticing aroma of a freshly fried bug, who knows, you may be tempted to take a bite after all…
The most common insects used as food in Viet Nam are grasshoppers and silkworm pupae.
The nutritional value of the Grasshoppers
Nowadays, as the economy develops, roasted grasshoppers have disappeared from the diets of Viet Nam’s families, particularly in big cities, replaced by meat and other more expensive food. But it remains a popular dish, especially for those that grew up snacking on bugs.
It’s easy to make fried grasshoppers. Boiled water is poured over the grasshoppers in order to remove their wings. The long antennas, hard legs, and organs are removed. After that, the grasshoppers (with or without their heads) are mixed with salt, rinsed and then left to dry before being cooked. Grasshoppers are roasted in a pan until they turn deep brown. Sliced lemon leaves will be added.
The resulting dish is tasty and crunchy, containing high nutritional value. Grasshoppers can be found in the fields all year round. However, they are especially abundant during rice harvest season, from May to September. They are also usually a lot fatter.
Silkworm pupae meal
Even more popular than grasshoppers, silkworm pupae were widely consumed in Viet Nam. Roasted silkworm pupae are enjoyed by many Vietnamese people as the dish contains lots of nutritious protein.
The country’s nutrition experts say that the dish, rich in protein and minerals, is good for children as it can prevent malnutrition and is important for the development of the body. It is also good for those who suffer from kidney disease or arthritis. The silkworm is the larva or caterpillar of the domesticated silk moth. Silkworm pupae are silkworm in the preparation phase, turning into butterflies to lay eggs.
From the market, pupae are washed, dried, and then mixed with salt. The silkworm pupae will be fried with oil and fish sauce. Lemon leaves were cut into tiny strips and mixed into fried pupae to add more taste to the dish.
Food specialists are encouraging people around the world to think about eating insects – an excellent source of protein. Maybe you do not completely trust, but hundreds of people Vietnam is a clear evidence. Are you ready to try?
Discover more about Vietnam cuisine at: http://www.viettravelmagazine.com/
