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How to Cook CicadasA Sampling of Methods for Cooking These Nutritious Arthropods
Although generally considered a nuisance, mostly due to the high-pitched sound they exude, these insects can also be a culinary treat.
If you live in one of the more temperate areas of the United States, you have likely noticed a high-pitched buzz coming from groves of trees. Those who grew up in the South or Midwest are more than likely familiar with this sound. Visitors or residents new to this part of the country need not be worried. We aren't being invaded by aliens, at least not those from another planet. Although there are species of cicadas that exit their burrows annually in late spring or early summer, it is the periodical cicada that is the most noticeable. Cicada juveniles, or "nymphs," live in tunnels underground for long periods, feeding on fluids from tree roots. Every 13 to 17 years, the nymphs begin constructing exit tunnels, which can be seen at the base of trees as holes approximately 1/2 inch in diameter. They will also sometimes build mud chimney-like formations over their holes. It is interesting to note that 13 and 17 are prime numbers. Some scientists have theorized that cicadas exit their burrows primarily during these periods to lessen their chances of becoming a regular source of food for predators with three- to five-year life spans. For instance, several species of birds will wax and wane on a five-year cycle. Cooking Cicadas Now that we have an idea of what they're all about, you may be wondering "yes, but how do they taste?" With the abundance of these pesky little creatures in certain parts of the US (and other parts of the world), you wouldn't be the first to ask this question. Cicadas have long been considered a delicacy in countries such as Japan, China and Greece; as well as by the Aborigines of Australia; and by Native Americans and residents of the Appalachian region of the United States. Common methods of cooking this ugly little bug include boiling, pan-frying, deep-frying, or even as an ingredient in tacos or pizzas. Regardless of how they are cooked, it is recommended to blanch them first to enhance flavor and to kill any parasites. It should also be noted that cicadas shouldn't be gathered for food in areas where there is a high use of insecticides. Gathering Cicadas for Food It is generally best to gather cicadas in the early morning, as this is when they are most sluggish. Expert cicada-gatherers will tell you to look for females primarily, as they have more meat and are filled with hundreds of nutritious eggs. Males, while still flavorful, will have more of a crunchy texture, as their bodies are mostly hollow to provide for amplified resonance of their mating call (which can reach over 100 decibels). Although not harmful to eat, the head, wings and legs should be removed before cooking, unless you prefer the additional crunch. Food Allergies If you have allergies to any foods, it is recommended that you check with your physician before attempting to eat cicadas. In particular, those who are allergic to shellfish may wish to avoid cicadas, as they, along with crayfish and shrimp, are arthropods. Cicada Recipes There are several recipes for Cicadas on the Web. The most comprehensive source, though, is Cicada-Licious: Cooking and Enjoying Periodical Cicadas by Jenna Jadin and the University of Maryland Cicadamaniacs. In addition to recipes such as "Cicada Dumplings," and "Emergence Cookies," a fact sheet is provided to show that other bugs are enjoyed around the world and are actually good for you, as most insects have high protein content. Sources Several cicada experts and enthusiasts have posted information on the Web regarding the science of cicadas, as well as their culinary benefits. Primary sources for this article were:
The copyright of the article How to Cook Cicadas in Southern Cuisine is owned by Jereme Zimmerman. Permission to republish How to Cook Cicadas in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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