Deep-Fried Ants in Colombia

Although deep-fried ants are far from a common component of the average Colombian diet, they are considered a delicacy.
Insects form a part of people’s diet in various regions of the world, and are renowned as a source of protein. In the eastern Santander region of Colombia, a variety of leaf-cutter ants known as Hormigas Culonas, or “big-ass ants,” are harvested during rainy season before being soaked in salty water and fried or roasted.

In addition to being a tasty snack, it is thought the ants are an aphrodisiac and they are often given to newly married couples. The ants can only be harvested for a couple of days each year, which adds to their mystique and, of course, drives prices higher.

Some entrepreneurial spirits add flavors such as lemon and spices to their ants, which when well-cooked are deliciously crunchy. Avoid undercooked batches which tend to be soggy and have an unpleasant texture.

If you want to try the big-ass ants, make sure you are in the Santander region around April and May, when the insects come out of their nests and are harvested for your culinary pleasure. Santander is within easy reach of Bogota and offers a wealth of outdoor activities for you to enjoy once you’re done with the Hormigas Culonas.

For those of you who you enjoy experimenting with the stranger items on the menu, big-ass ants are surprisingly tasty and well-named for storytelling.