Fried spider facts for kids
Fried spider is a unique and popular snack found in Cambodia. It's especially famous in the town of Skuon, which is about 75 kilometers (47 miles) from the capital city, Phnom Penh. Many tourists visit Skuon just to try these crispy spiders! While you can find fried spiders in other parts of Cambodia, Skuon is known as the main place to get them.
These spiders are often raised in special holes in the ground in villages near Skuon. They are also found in nearby forests. After being caught, they are fried in oil. No one is completely sure how people started eating spiders. Some believe it began during a difficult time in Cambodia's history. People might have eaten spiders because food was very hard to find.
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What Kind of Spiders Are They?
The spiders used for this snack are a type of tarantula. In the Khmer language, they are called "a-ping." These spiders are quite large, often about the size of a human hand.
The "Edible Spider"
One specific type of tarantula used is Haplopelma albostriatum. This spider is also known as the Thai Zebra Tarantula. Interestingly, this same species has been called the "edible spider" for over a hundred years. However, eating them as a popular snack is a more recent trend. It probably started around the 1990s.
How Much Do They Cost?
In 2002, a single fried spider cost about 300 riel. This was equal to about US$0.08 at that time.
How Are Fried Spiders Made?
Making fried spiders involves a special recipe. First, the spiders are mixed with a seasoning. This seasoning usually includes MSG, sugar, and salt.
Next, some crushed garlic is fried in oil until it smells good. Then, the seasoned spiders are added to the pan. They are fried with the garlic until their legs become very stiff. At this point, the inside of their bodies is no longer runny.
What Do They Taste Like?
People describe the taste of fried spiders as mild. Some say it tastes like a mix between chicken and cod fish. The texture is also interesting. The outside is crispy, while the inside is soft.
Different Parts of the Spider
The legs of the spider have very little meat. However, the head and body contain a soft, white meat. The abdomen, which is the back part of the spider's body, contains a brown paste. This paste includes the spider's organs, and sometimes eggs or waste. Some people consider the abdomen a special treat. Others prefer not to eat it.
Fried Spiders in Other Countries
While fried spiders are most famous in Cambodia, they have appeared in other places too. In Mexico, for example, tarantulas have sometimes been served in tacos. These tacos might even come with a bit of guacamole.
However, in Mexico, selling many types of tarantulas for food is against the law. Because of this, authorities have sometimes closed down vendors who offer this unique dish.
See also
In Spanish: Araña frita para niños
