Jumiles facts for kids

Jumiles (pronounced hoo-MEE-lays) are small, edible insects that are a special part of the food culture in the Taxco region of Guerrero, Mexico. They are a type of "stink bug," but don't worry, they are collected and eaten for their unique flavor! People in Mexico have been eating insects like jumiles for a very long time.

What are Jumiles?

Jumiles are tiny insects that belong to a group called "stink bugs" (scientifically known as Pentatomidae). They are found mainly in the Taxco area of Mexico. These little bugs love to munch on the leaves of a tree called the encina (which is a type of oak tree).

There are also "chumiles," which are similar but smaller insects found in the same region. Both jumiles and chumiles are part of the insect order called Hemiptera, and they are both used as food.

Jumiles as Food

People collect jumiles because they are a tasty and unique food. You can eat them in many ways: roasted, fried, ground up, or even raw!

How to Eat Jumiles

One popular way to enjoy jumiles is in a special salsa. To make this salsa, fresh tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions are mixed together. Then, jumiles are mashed in a special stone bowl called a molcajete and added to the mix. This delicious salsa is often served with warm corn tortillas.

The Jumil Season and Fiesta

The jumil season starts on November 1st, and it's a big deal in Taxco! A large party, or "fiesta," is held to celebrate. People gather in a mountain park called Huisteco to collect jumiles. During this fiesta, they even crown a "Jumil Queen"! Jumiles are easy to find from November until February, but they become harder to find after the first rains of the year.

Unique Flavor and Nutrients

Jumiles have a very distinct smell, sometimes described as being like cinnamon. Their flavor is quite unique and can be a bit bitter or medicinal. This is because they contain a lot of iodine. Many people say it's a taste you learn to love!

Besides their interesting flavor, jumiles are also good for you. They are a good source of tryptophan, which is an important amino acid. They also provide vitamins like riboflavin and niacin.

Some famous TV shows have even featured people eating jumiles! On Globe Trekker, Justine Shapiro ate a live jumil. And on his show Bizarre Foods, Andrew Zimmern tried them and said they tasted like tutti-frutti chewing gum!

See also

In Spanish: Jumil para niños