Japan has a hidden treasure trove of unique and captivating dishes that may raise eyebrows among the uninitiated: insect cuisine. However, the thought of eating insects might evoke mixed feelings for many. This culinary tradition has been embraced and celebrated by various Japanese communities.
The Practice Of Eating Insects In Japan
Ready to eat this silkworm chocolate. Bon appetit!pic.twitter.com/h8W1VDi7Nq
— HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) February 23, 2015
The practice of eating insects has deep historical roots in Japan. From the earliest times, insects played a crucial role in the diet of indigenous communities. Historically, insects were an essential source of sustenance during periods of famine or food scarcity. This cuisine demonstrates its significance in maintaining food security.
Now, insect cuisine has experienced a resurgence. As the world grapples with issues of food insecurity and environmental degradation, insect consumption offers a promising solution due to its low ecological footprint. Japan’s insect cuisine is an intriguing aspect of its culinary heritage. Moreover, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history, culture, and ecological sustainability.
Dishes like Grasshopper Soy Sauce Glaze, Stonefly Larvae, Honeybee Larvae or Fried Cicadas are quite the famous picks. Looks like, consuming bug-filled foods, which are common in regional cuisines around the world, seems to be the cue for food security.
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Is Insect Cuisine The Key To Food Security?
Do you love snails in your food ?? pic.twitter.com/4Ci49P190e
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In the near future, insects might provide a sustainable supply of protein. The United Nations-affiliated Food and Agriculture Organisation revealed in a report titled Edible Insects: Future Prospects for the Security of Food and Feed. Since edible insects may be found in a variety of ecosystems, including farms and woods, eating insects, also known as entomophagy, may be a strategy to improve global food security.
Silkworm sashimi, and cricket curry on food menus make a comeback in Japan, as per an article published by Reuters. Tokyo’s Take-Noko restaurant offers a variety of dishes laced with insects, including meatballs made of crickets for a curry, spice made of dried insects, and cider produced from giant water bug extract.
Pasco, a well-known national bakery chain, has made cakes and snacks with cricket flour. In the past year, Japanese businesses have made investments in insect projects, including the processed food manufacturer Nichirei and telecom behemoth Nippon Telegraph and Telephone.
Have you ever tried eating insects?
Cover image credits: Wikimedia Commons