Mexican Chapulines (Deep Fried Grasshoppers) Recipe
Deep-fried grasshoppers are a traditional dish with roots in various regions worldwide, including Mexico, Thailand, and parts of Africa. In Mexico, especially in the state of Oaxaca, these grasshoppers are considered a delicacy.Dating back to pre-Columbian times, grasshoppers were a valuable protein source for the indigenous people of Mexico, consumed both cooked and raw. Today, deep-fried grasshoppers, known as chapulines, remain a popular snack in many parts of Mexico, often seasoned with chili powder and lime juice for added flavor. These crunchy treats are prepared by deep-frying the grasshoppers until they become crispy.
Ingredients
- Grasshoppers - 1 cup
- All-purpose flour - 1 cup
- Garlic powder - 1 tsp
- Paprika - 1 tsp
- Salt - 1 tsp
- Black pepper - 1/2 tsp
- Milk - 1/2 cup
- Egg - 1
- Oil - for frying
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the grasshoppers in cold water and letting them dry completely.
- Now, take a bowl, and add flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to it. Combine all the ingredients well.
- Take another bowl and add egg and milk to it. Whisk both the ingredients together.
- Now, take the grasshopper and first dip it in the milk and egg concoction, then cover them in the flour mixture, getting rid of any excess.
- Next, take a deep-frying pan and heat oil in it.
- Take the grasshoppers in batches and throw them into the oil for frying. Make sure to turn them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Take out the fried grasshoppers from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to get rid of excess oil.
- Serve the fried grasshoppers immediately as a crunchy snack or as a salad.
Nutrition
Calories: 244kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 820mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
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