6 Recipes to Try with Cicadas from Georgia Yard

Unique cicada recipes for adventurous eaters, from beginner tacos to advanced boil. Just avoid if allergic or pregnant. Enjoy!

Are you feeling adventurous in the kitchen or looking to try something new? Maybe you want to get back at those noisy bugs in your yard. Whatever the reason, we have some unique recipes featuring a special main ingredient.

Cicadas are not only a sustainable source of protein but also have a nutty flavor when roasted and a buttery taste when boiled, similar to shrimp or lobster. However, it's important to note that if you have a seafood allergy, you should avoid eating cicadas. Additionally, raw cicadas can carry harmful microorganisms, so it's best to cook them thoroughly.

Experts recommend that children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers avoid eating cicadas due to their mercury content. But if you're not in any of those categories, it's time to give these bugs a try.

Here are some beginner recipes to get you started:

- Chocolate-Covered Cicadas: Dip boiled cicadas in melted chocolate and refrigerate until hardened.
- Cicada Tacos: Roast cicadas with oil, salt, pepper, and chili powder, then combine with eggs and spices in tortillas.

For those who have tried cicadas before and want to explore more flavors, here are some intermediate recipes:

- Boiled Cicadas: Blanch cicadas in boiling water for one minute, then freeze or use immediately in recipes.
- Stir-Fried Cicadas: Cook cicadas with vegetables, soy sauce, and spices in a wok for a flavorful dish.

And for the seasoned cicada eaters looking for a challenge, here are some advanced recipes:

- Old Bay Boil: Boil cicadas with potatoes, onions, smoked sausage, and corn in a seasoned liquid for a hearty meal.
- Cicada Feast: Serve boiled cicadas in bowls or on a picnic table with Old Bay seasoning for a festive dining experience.

If you've tried cooking cicadas before, share your recipes with us at [email protected]. And remember, while cicadas may overwhelm with their noise, they can also provide a unique culinary experience.