Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of grasshoppers
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of cornmeal
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Tongs
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the grasshoppers in cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, lime juice, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour and cornmeal.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Dip each grasshopper into the chili-lime mixture, then coat it in the flour-cornmeal mixture.
6. Place the grasshoppers in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Use tongs to remove the grasshoppers from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 1 cup of grasshoppers serves 2-3 people as a snack
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of grasshoppers, you can use crickets or mealworms.
- Instead of chili powder, you can use cayenne pepper or paprika.
- Instead of lime juice, you can use lemon juice or vinegar.
Variations:
- Add garlic powder or onion powder to the flour-cornmeal mixture for extra flavor.
- Serve with a dipping sauce made from mayonnaise, lime juice, and hot sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to remove the legs and wings from the grasshoppers before cooking.
- Use fresh grasshoppers for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when frying the grasshoppers.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover grasshoppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the grasshoppers in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the grasshoppers on a bed of lettuce or herbs for a colorful presentation.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for added flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cold beer or a margarita for a refreshing drink pairing.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with tortilla chips and salsa for a complete Mexican-inspired snack.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the grasshoppers are not crispy enough, increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to buy grasshoppers from a reputable source and cook them thoroughly before eating.
Food history:
- In many cultures, insects are a common source of protein and have been eaten for thousands of years.
Flavor profiles:
- The grasshoppers have a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture, while the chili-lime seasoning adds a spicy and tangy kick.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or appetizer at a party or gathering.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Thai