Ant eggs are a nutritious delicacy for all ages, offering medicinal properties and supporting various bodily functions. During the season, hunters can make a small fortune from this ‘miracle cure’. Join us as we explore the characteristics and benefits of this unique food!
1 What are Ant Eggs? Are They Edible?
According to folk knowledge, ants typically build their nests in tall trees, using leaves to create a home for their eggs. Come March in the lunar calendar, locals embark on a “hunt” for ant eggs, a delicacy likened to “nature’s gift”.
Ant eggs are considered a precious gift from nature
Ant eggs are typically found in mountainous regions such as Nho Quan in Ninh Binh, Luc Ngan, and Son Dong in Bac Giang. Not all ant species are suitable for culinary purposes. Generally, edible ant eggs include those from the yellow ant, brown ant, and black spiny ant.
2 Benefits of Ant Eggs
Research and Traditional Chinese Medicine agree that ant eggs, particularly those of the yellow variety, offer numerous health benefits.
Ant eggs are rich in over 30 essential amino acids, with protein content ranging from 42% to 47%, and are a good source of fat, vitamins, and minerals. As such, they are highly beneficial for the elderly, children, and those with health conditions.
Research and Traditional Chinese Medicine attest to the health benefits of ant eggs
They are also believed to slow down skin aging, improve skin softness and elasticity in women, and enhance male virility. Additionally, yellow ant eggs promote blood circulation, reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and provide essential nutrients to the body.
Some even consider ant eggs a miraculous cure-all, aiding sleep, combating depression, and treating neurological disorders.
Ant eggs are regarded as a panacea by some
3 Delicious Dishes Made with Ant Eggs
Ant eggs are considered a rare and precious delicacy. Due to their nutritional benefits, they have become a valuable ingredient in creating delectable and nourishing dishes.
Ant Egg Cake
Ant egg cake combines the sticky sweetness of rice flour with the rich flavor of ant eggs
Ant egg cake is a specialty of the Tay, Nung, and Thai ethnic groups in the northeastern mountainous region, particularly in Cao Bang and Bac Kan.
The cake’s filling is made from two main ingredients: unhatched ant eggs and glutinous rice flour. The cake’s wrapper is made from vả tree leaves, a forest tree found in northern Vietnam. The unique flavor of the ant egg cake comes from the combination of sticky, fragrant rice flour, rich ant eggs, and the soft texture of the vả leaves. Together, they create an unforgettable, mouthwatering taste.
Ant Egg Sticky Rice
Ant egg sticky rice is a unique dish with a satisfying pop from the ant eggs
Ant egg sticky rice is a specialty of Ninh Binh and other northern mountainous provinces. The combination of sticky rice and ant eggs is delightful, with an enticing aroma. The rice is sticky yet fluffy, rich and creamy, with a hint of natural sweetness. The ant eggs add a fun, popping texture to each bite.
Ant Egg Salt
Ant egg salt has a mild fragrance and a pleasant taste
Ant egg salt can be used as a substitute for chili salt, and it goes well with grilled meats. It is not overly pungent and has a pleasant, mild flavor.
In the highland communes of Phu Yen and Gia Lai, it is common to see roadside stalls selling jars of golden ant egg salt.
4 Precautions When Eating Ant Eggs
While ant eggs are highly nutritious, they may not be suitable for everyone. If you plan to indulge in this delicacy, keep the following in mind:
Ant Eggs Can Cause Allergic Reactions
Be cautious as ant eggs may trigger allergic reactions
Ant eggs are rich in nutrients, with a high protein content, including tryptophan and certain amino acids that the body cannot synthesize. However, they also contain various unfamiliar proteins that may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you have a history of allergies, exercise caution before consuming ant eggs.
Avoid Spoiled Ant Eggs
Only consume ant eggs that are fresh and properly stored
Ant eggs are protein-rich and highly perishable. If they spoil, they can cause food poisoning, so it is crucial to avoid consuming them in such a state.
Properly Clean and Prepare Ant Eggs Before Consumption
Improperly cleaned ant eggs can introduce harmful bacteria into your body
Ants typically live in damp environments, which can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites. Consuming ant eggs without proper cleaning and preparation may introduce these pathogens into your body.
5 Price and Availability of Ant Eggs
In today’s market, there are individuals who farm yellow ants for their eggs, but their numbers are limited. As a result, acquiring ant eggs can be challenging.
Obtaining ant eggs can be a difficult task
Since ant eggs are typically sourced from the wild and are seasonal, their price tends to be high. During the season, prices can range from 400,000 VND to 580,000 VND per kilogram, and they can cost even more during the off-season.
We hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into the unique and nutritious world of ant eggs. If you have the opportunity, give them a try and share your experience with us!
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