Chicatanas Imported From Mexico | Edible Insects | Edible Bugs

EDIBLE ANTS: CHICATANAS FROM MEXICO Scientific Name: Atta mexicana Chicatanas are flying ants and the queen ants are a pre-Hispanic delicacy dating back centuries. During the rainy season in central Mexico, Zapotecs would gather the queen ants that emerge from the ground only during a few months each year. Today, the tradition is carried on by people throughout central Mexico. Chicatanas are not easy to harvest. Not only are they only available for a short period of time but gathering them is a feat in itself. They fly and they bite. This may be one reason they are one of the more expensive edible insects. The other is that they taste great and are perfect as a snack or an ingredient. Chicatanas are the main ingredient of a popular salsa called “Salsa de Chicatanas” (surprise), which is prepared with chilis, onion, and garlic. It’s not hard to make. Grind the chicatanas in a molcajete (mortar and pestle), grind the chilis, then mix with the garlic and onions, pan-roast to taste. Keep i