This is how we cook caterpillars/mopani worms in Africa Zambia

Boil water in a dish to prepare the caterpillars.

Dip the caterpillars in the boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to remove dirt.

Heat a frying pan on a brazier and add cooking oil to heat up.

Once the oil is hot, add the caterpillars to the pan for frying.

Fry the caterpillars until they become crispy and golden brown, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

Do not cover the pan with a lid while frying to avoid boiling the caterpillars.

Optionally, add salt to the caterpillars while frying for flavor.

Cut onions and tomatoes by hand to add to the frying pan with the caterpillars.

Leave the onions and tomatoes on top of the caterpillars to cook and dissolve in the oil for a few minutes.

Drain excess cooking oil from the frying pan once the caterpillars are done frying.

Taste the caterpillars to ensure they are crispy and well-seasoned with salt.

Serve the fried caterpillars as a snack or side dish, typically with Shima.

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary