Appetizer > Entomophagy

Coconut Fried Grasshoppers Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of grasshoppers
- 1 cup of shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil for frying

Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the grasshoppers in cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded coconut, flour, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
4. Dip the grasshoppers in the milk and egg mixture, then coat them in the coconut mixture.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.
6. Fry the grasshoppers in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the grasshoppers from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Serve immediately.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
2-3 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 210
Fat: 12g
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 350mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of grasshoppers, you can use crickets or mealworms.
- Instead of shredded coconut, you can use bread crumbs or panko crumbs.
- Instead of all-purpose flour, you can use almond flour or coconut flour.

Variations:
- Add spices like cumin or paprika to the coconut mixture for extra flavor.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or ranch dressing.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to remove the legs and wings of the grasshoppers before cooking.
- Use fresh grasshoppers for the best taste and texture.
- Do not overcrowd the fryer or pot to ensure even cooking.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover grasshoppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the grasshoppers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the grasshoppers on a bed of lettuce or with a side salad.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.

Pairings:
- Serve with a cold beer or a fruity cocktail.

Suggested side dishes:
- Sweet potato fries
- Grilled vegetables
- Rice pilaf

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the coconut mixture is not sticking to the grasshoppers, try patting them dry with paper towels before coating.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the grasshoppers to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
- Always wash your hands and cooking surfaces thoroughly after handling insects.

Food history:
- Insects have been a part of human diets for thousands of years, particularly in cultures where protein sources are scarce.

Flavor profiles:
- The grasshoppers have a nutty and slightly earthy flavor, while the coconut adds sweetness and crunch.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or a unique snack for adventurous eaters.

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Region: Thai

Taste: Crispy, Coconutty, Savory, Nutty, Fried