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Gusanos de maguey

I’ve lived a varied life and traveled ‘round the world.
I’ve always tried the local fare. Yes, sometimes it made me hurl.
But I’ve never been the type to simply turn away
and so I’m here to recommend  “gusanos de maguey.”

Yes, they’re worms and most of us, I think, would be disgusted.
But I’ve learned to watch the locals, whose palette’s can be trusted.
Just because it’s not with our “norm” doesn’t make it a threat.
It’s just different and, for the most part, I’ve always had no regret.

About three inches long, they’re best when lightly braised
with hot spices (not too much) until they’re almost glazed.
They make the perfect snack served in a tortilla, hot,
and it never hurts to chase with a tequila shot. 

They have a flavor that is reminiscent of pork bacon
and over time I’ve found that I have been quite taken
with their subtle taste and texture.  Moreover,
after eating them, I’ve never had a hang-over!



Author notes

I often travel to Mexico as part of my job. It was there I was introduced (while intoxicated I might add) to gusanos. Since then, sober and completely voluntary, I have found them to be delicious with a delicate spicy bacon flavor. Gusanos del maguey are two varieties of edible caterpillars that infest maguey and Agave tequilana plants. They are considered a delicacy by Mexican peasants and are highly nutritious. One 100-gram serving contains over 650 calories, or the equivalent of two plates of rice. They are also considered delicious deep fried or braised, seasoned with a spicy sauce and served in a tortilla.
Prompt: Your favorite “local” food
Picture Credit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Chinicuiles_005.jpg
No limit

A contest entry

Critical Comments Always Welcome but I Won't Turn Down Fluffy One's Either :D

    : , Your review:

    Comment Suggestion: What is your your first impression?
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    : no Cost: 0 free left 0 points, You have (?)

Comments

1 - 11 of 11

  • DogFish silver member
    August 31, 2008
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    ...only with lots of tequila !

    Two thumbs up for your poem
    two thumbs down for your recipe!


  • PerVirtuous
    August 30, 2008
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    Yummy! I'd like mine with deep fried baby gorillas and a side order of gross. Have some bunnies.

  • jfysail
    August 29, 2008
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    OMG, your kidding

    This is a very cute poem. But I will never kiss you again


  • Griswold gold member
    August 28, 2008

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    I happened to be eating while I read this. You know, I like to think I'm pretty adventurous but eating bugs is just a little too far over the line for me. It's a good thing I quit drinking, i might think it a good idea. I tink I'll save the rest of this sandwich for later. Well done. Scott

  • thinking ape
    August 28, 2008

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    Invalid: I am Biased

    They look just like what I feed my darling gecko. And to think I thought my tuna salad might be too adventurous (raw onions and black olives)for your palate's palette! I shall feed you as I do myself without fear henceforth! Hai!
    Oh as a poem. (ahemph) Rhymes right well. Scansion dubious, but almost no one agrees even when that rare thing happens and it's perfect. Then just why it is perfect must be dissected and when the critics are done there is no poem left.

    My first impression is a big fat grin. You ate lizard food! How can I not laugh and be curious now?


  • Dalaney gold member
    August 28, 2008

    Edit | Reply


    • KayJay
      August 29, 2008
      Edit | Reply
      What is the little blue head shaker ... are you trying to tell me "No Way?" I bet if you tried them (and didn't know what they were) you'd love 'em. They really are good - disgusting, but good


  • Lucy.
    August 28, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    Oh.....oh.....okay......hmmm...yuk.

    BUT good on you for being so adventurous. Now you've made me curious about your job since I've never asked. You'll have to tell me in an IM.

    And do women kiss you after you've eaten a plateful of caterpillars?


  • Sweet Impatience gold member
    August 28, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    I'm so happy that you can eat them.. more for you.. I'm into trying new things, but I have to say this.. this won't be among them.. ewwww gross.. lol I don't even think that if I was intoxicated enough I would even attempt this... but maybe with the right persuasion I might consider it..

    excellent poem.. everyone has different tastes and fav foods.. how about the tequila shot before during & after... lol


    good luck in the contest my lover

    kat


  • Rovingone gold member
    August 28, 2008

    Edit | Reply
    Being a vegetarian myself, I'm not much into eating worms. But, if it floats yer boat, go for it I say. It was a humorous little ditty.


    • KayJay
      August 28, 2008
      Edit | Reply
      Really, they're good and they're organic Thanks for the look and comment...
      Ken

1 - 11 of 11