Chapulines, or grasshoppers, are delicious when wrapped in a corn tortilla and drenched in chile sauce or on their own as a quick snack. They are very popular in Oaxaca, Mexico, where they are consumed on a daily basis.
Chapulines are very high in protein while being low in fat and have a wonderful crunchy texture when cooked properly. Pan-frying them in a skillet with infused oil is a quick and easy method. Grasshoppers in great abundance are hard to find, and even in Mexico they are only found in certain states. But if you do come across a good chapulines source, you can use this recipe for fantastic results.
Grasshoppers can sometimes contain parasites, so cooking them thoroughly is very important. Removing the wings and legs before cooking is important since they provide an unpleasant texture. Eat them as a crunchy snack with a Mexican beer or serve as a filling for tacos with tortillas and toppings.
Ingredients
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1 pound chapulines, grasshoppers
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1/2 cup oil, for frying
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3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
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1 serrano chile, seeded and diced
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1/2 onion, chopped
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1 dash salt, or to taste
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1 lime, cut into wedges
Steps to Make It
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Gather the ingredients.
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Pull the wings and legs off of each chapuline (grasshopper). Discard.
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Heat the oil in a shallow pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the garlic, chile, and the onion until the onion is translucent.
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With a slotted spoon, remove and discard the onions, chile, and garlic from the oil, leaving the oil in the pan.
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Sauté the chapulines in the oil until they are brown and crispy.
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Remove the chapulines and drain them well on paper towels.
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Sprinkle salt over the top and then squeeze some lime over them.
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Enjoy them as a snack or use as a filling for tacos.
Tip
Chapulines can be tricky to find if you don't live in Mexico. You're likely to have the best luck if you live in the Southwest or have a good Mexican market available. They can also be ordered online.
What Do Chapulines Taste Like?
Chapulines, or grasshoppers, have a mild flavor on their own. Some compare eating fried chapulines to eating fried shrimp. They are crunchy and tend to take on other flavors like garlic, chile, and lime.
Is It Safe To Eat a Grasshopper?
Grasshoppers, known as chapulines in Mexico, are safe to eaten once cooked—cooking helps kill any harmful parasites and bacteria. Grasshoppers can be consumed whole once the legs and wings are removed.
Are Chapulines Good for You?
Chapulines are a healthy choice for meat-eaters since they are low in fat and high in protein. They provide some other essential minerals like zinc and iron, and may help improve gut bacteria.