Are you ready for the newest and most amazing food adventure? Foodies and Paleo eaters love them. They are roasted and seasoned with chile powder and lime to make a classically-Mexican snack. They are Chapulines, or grasshoppers, and we serve them in the traditional Mexican way. And guess what? Kids love to eat them, too.
Chapulines are a Mexican delicacy (like our Huitlacoche ) and trace their origins back to the 16th century. The early Mexicans used them as a sustainable source of protein that was harvested during the rainy season in the summer.
Perhaps the best-known region in Mexico for Chapulines is Oaxaca state. There, they are for sale in street markets, piled high, and sold by the scoop.
Nutritional Value
Grasshoppers are a great source of sustainable protein. According to an SFGate article, a 3.5-ounce serving of raw grasshoppers contains between 14 and 28 grams of protein, which is quite a lot for such a small amount of food. That translates to between 30 and 60 percent of the 46 grams of protein women need each day and between 25 and 50 percent of the 56 grams men need on a daily basis.
How do Chapulines Taste?
The grasshoppers, actually, have a very mild flavor. Some people describe it as a light shrimp and smoky taste and they are often paired with a sauce or other flavoring. Traditional Mexican flavors include garlic, lime juice and salt. Children like to eat them: When chapulines are cooked in the right way, kids see them as a fun adventure. Their size makes them a perfect snack or garnish.
Aqui es Texcoco’s Chapulines mean authentic
We serve a hearty plate of chapulines in a variety of ways: with tortillas and salsa so you can make tacos your own way; with slices of avocado to balance the flavors; and, our newest style, guacamole with chapulines.
Next time you visit us, ask for a plate of chapulines and your favorite beer. You won’t regret it.
Chapulines, Avocado, and Beer