Zesty Ants on a Stick

Ingredients

In this Nepalese adaptation, we replace the traditional ingredients of Zompopos de mayo with Nepalese spices and flavors. The ants are marinated in a zesty blend of ginger, garlic, chili, and lime juice, giving them a unique Nepalese twist. Additionally, the ants are skewered on sticks for easy snacking, making them a perfect street food option. We alse have the original recipe for Zompopos de mayo, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (150g) fried ants 1 cup (150g) fried ants
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Skewers for serving Skewers for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the ginger paste, garlic paste, chili powder, lime juice, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the fried ants to the bowl and mix well, ensuring they are coated evenly with the marinade.
3. 3.
   Allow the ants to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
4. 4.
   Skewer the marinated ants onto the skewers.
5. 5.
   Grill or roast the skewered ants over medium heat until they are crispy and golden brown.
6. 6.
   Serve the Zesty Ants on a Stick hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fried ants — Ensure that the ants are thoroughly cleaned and fried until crispy before using them in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• If you can't find fried ants, you can try substituting them with fried crickets or other edible insects.
• Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.
• Serve the Zesty Ants on a Stick with a side of spicy tomato chutney for an extra kick of flavor.
• Make sure to cook the ants until they are crispy to enhance their texture.
• Experiment with different marinades by adding spices like cumin or turmeric for a unique twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Zesty Ants on a Stick as a unique appetizer or snack at Nepalese-themed parties or adventurous food gatherings. Provide extra skewers for easy sharing and encourage guests to dip the ants in spicy tomato chutney for an explosion of flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewered ants on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and wedges of lime for a vibrant and enticing presentation. Consider using bamboo skewers for an authentic touch.