Would you munch on cicadas? This insect delicacy is taking New Orleans by storm - and you've got to try it!
Buggin' Out for Cicada Season
While most folks run screaming from those red-eyed, winged beasties known as cicadas, the free-thinkers over at New Orleans' Audubon Insectarium are embracing them...by putting cicadas on their menu! Their "Bug Appetit" cafe is dishing up a range of insect-based eats, from (ick!) cricket canapes to (gag!) mealworm munchies.
The Cicada Special You Didn't Know You Needed
As billions of cicadas prepare to emerge across the eastern U.S., the insectarium's curator, Zack Lemann, has been getting creative with cicada-centric recipes. On the trial menu? A refreshing green salad topped with roasted, seasoned cicada nymphs and a zesty blueberry vinaigrette. He's also experimenting with crispy fried cicada fritters drizzled in creole mustard sauce. Yum?
Mind-Blowingly Delicious?
Sure, the idea of eating bugs might make you go "eww" at first, and maybe about 27 times after that, but cultures around the world savor insect protein - and cicadas actually taste nutty and delicious when cooked right. Plus, they're super nutritious and way more eco-friendly than meat. Lemann believes this could be a game-changer: "There's no reason to wrinkle your nose at insects when you look at their quality on the plate and environmental benefits."
Yes, we know insects may be the future of animal protein, but we can't get over the fact that they're insects. You know how creepy they feel crawling on you? OK, now imagine one getting all chewed up in your gob with some arugula and ranch. AGGH! But don't let our weak stomachs dissuade you. Like the saying goes, you only live once, and at the very least, you'll come back with some bragging rights.
