Image via Complex Original
Patrick Judabong - photographer, DJ, and founder of the Fat Bastard Crew, known to the world as Buddhabong. He has traveled the world in search of stunning images, great beats, and the best eats. Currently, you can catch him getting fat in and around New York City.
In Thailand, the vendor told me, "I sell out almost every night, the people here love it." I asked if it was safe to eat. She replied, "The act of frying kills any bacteria."
Fried is always better, right? Would you consider a fried insect a food? In parts of the world, the natives consider insects a tasty snack, not to mention a great source of protein and calcium.
The perfect drunk snack, these edible insects include fried crickets, grasshoppers, cockroaches, water beetles, bamboo worms, scorpions, spiders and ant eggs, depending on the availability. One small plate costs less than $1.
On a recent trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand, I came across an insect cart while walking the night market. Getting the nerve up to actually try an insect was daunting but if you ever find yourself confronted with your neighnorhood jungle friends, I recommend you try them. Hey, why not? When are you ever going to try fried insects again? If all else, remember the wise words of Russel Peters, "Be a man!"
Silk Worm
I tried the silk worm, as recommend by the seller. It was an inch long, colored a light shade of yellow, and a had a smooth, oily coating. The taste was reminiscent of stale popcorn, with a bit more crunchiness. Maybe I should have tried it with Thai chili sauce and lemon grass like the other natives who ran up excitedly to the cart, I but wanted to get the taste of the simple raw flavor.
Water Beetle
Bigger, chewier, and with much more meat. I couldn't get myself to try it because it reminds me of its relative, the cochroach, but if you are into it you definetly get more bang for the baht!
Cricket Plate
This styrofoam plate costs less than $1. Make sure to break the legs off, as it helps with the digestion process.
The Fried Insect Cart
Like the food carts in the States, highly portable. Clients include locals, bar girls, tourists, and sleezy Europeans.