Appetizers
Chenilles Grillées (Grilled Caterpillars)
Ingredients
- - 300 g (10 oz) dried edible caterpillars, rehydrated in warm water
- - 2 tbsp palm oil
- - 1 onion, finely chopped
- - 2 garlic cloves, minced
- - 1 tsp chilli powder, or to taste
- - 1 tsp salt
- - 1 tbsp lime juice
Method
- Soak the dried caterpillars in warm water for 20 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
- Heat the palm oil in a frying pan and sauté the onion and garlic until golden.
- Add the caterpillars, chilli powder and salt, tossing to coat evenly.
- Transfer to a hot grill or grill pan and grill for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly crisped.
- Squeeze lime juice over the top just before serving warm as a starter.
Introduction: Edible caterpillars, harvested seasonally from the forests of the Central African Republic, are a prized traditional protein source and a genuine national delicacy, especially popular as an appetizer during the rainy season when they are most abundant.
Cultural Background: Edible caterpillars, harvested seasonally from the forests of the Central African Republic, are a prized traditional protein source and a genuine national delicacy, especially popular as an appetizer during the rainy season when they are most abundant.
Tips: Fresh caterpillars, when in season, need no rehydration and grill even more quickly than the dried version.
Variations: A dry-roasted version without oil is also common, finished simply with salt and chilli. Not applicable; no vegetarian substitute preserves the authentic dish.
Storage: Refrigerate cooked leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat briefly in a dry frying pan over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 190 kcal, 22g protein, 5g carbohydrate, 9g fat, 1g fibre.
FAQs:
Q: Where can I buy edible caterpillars?
A: Dried edible caterpillars are sold at African and specialty grocers, and increasingly through online African food retailers.
Q: What do they taste like?
A: They have a savoury, earthy, slightly nutty flavour and a texture similar to a firm mushroom.