5 delicious insects Nigerians eat as delicacy (photos)

Would you ever eat a plate full of insects? Sure, most people would say ‘NO’ and even shake their heads in disgust.

Insects are considered as a good source of protein by some people and many Nigerians eat it.

Insects are plentiful and many are safe to eat but a few of them are dangerous.

Though they look creepy and poisonous, insects are healthy, nutritious, as well as delicious.

Edible insects have long been a part of the human diet and are consumed by a good number of people. They often contain high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals and amino acids for humans.

Some Nigerians are very adventurous with food and they eat insects which they consider a delicacy.

Below are some insects which Nigerians eat.

1. Locusts: They are the swarming phase of certain species of short-horned grasshoppers in the family Acrididae. It is just a bigger version of the grasshopper and is known to devastate crops and terrorize farmers. They can be cooked in many ways, fried, smoked or dried. It is best eaten fried with palm oil instead of vegetable oil.

2. Winged termites: This is one of the commonly eaten insects. They come out of their nests under the ground during rainy season. You see Nigerians devising all sorts of methods to catch the insects. After collecting a large number, they are fried and eaten as a delicacy. It has a high nutritional value.

3. Grasshoppers: They have similar physical features with locusts and are found on grasslands. This yummy delicacy can be fried, boiled, salted, or sun-dried. Grasshoppers contain calcium as well as a high ratio of protein for their size.

4. Palm weevil larvae: It is eaten mostly by people from Southern Nigeria. Often referred to as Bayelsa suya or edible worm, this delicacy is often sold on the streets like every other snack. It contains proteins, omega 3 fatty acids which is good for the heart, and vitamins A and C.

5. Crickets: Many Nigerian children dedicate most of their time chasing these insects and when they have a handful, they take it home for preparation. Crickets are low in fat compared to many other sources of animal protein. They provide complete protein containing all nine of the essential amino acids.

Which of these have you eaten and if none, which would you try?

Source: Legit.ng