How to Cook Mealworms

You can cook and eat mealworms.

Most people in the United States think that insects, such as mealworms, are only used to feed lizards. But there are many cultures that cultivate mealworms for human consumption. Since mealworms are readily available in the United States, you can find them almost anywhere, and can cook them in a short amount of time.

Things You'll Need

• Skillet
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper, as desired
• Various spices, as desired

Instructions

1. Wash all mealworms you intend to cook thoroughly in water.

2. Heat the pan over medium heat with 1 to 2 tbsp. of butter or olive oil, to suit the number of mealworms you intend to cook.

3. Place the mealworms in the pan and season with salt and pepper as desired.

4. After adding your favorite spices, such as cayenne pepper or cumin, saute the mealworms until they are golden-brown. Be careful not to burn them.

5. Drain the mealworms; serve hot.

Tips & Warnings

• Mealworms can be a dish like any other food, and the same spices that make your favorite dishes taste good may do the same for your mealworms. If you aren't sure how to spice up your newest delicacy, try replicating a mixture of spices you've used in a favorite meat or vegetable dish.

• Cook your mealworms well, to reduce the risk of contracting any bacteria they may carry.

• To reduce the risk of disease, buy your mealworms from trusted exotic food supply sources, instead of collecting them yourself.

References

• Hollowtop: Raising Mealworms