Photo Credit: Culture Trip

Mopane worms is a popular dish eaten by many people across Southern Africa. Some people choose to refer to Mopane worms simply as caterpillars. Since the name ‘Mopane worms’ is derived from the source of food for the worms which is the Mopane tree leaves. They are mostly consumed in countries such as South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.

Mopane worms are rich in protein, fats, and minerals. Research studies on Mopane worms suggest that Mopane worms contain higher protein than other sources such as chicken and milk. In rural areas, worms are an affordable supplement for protein. It is also advisable to feed young children with pounded mopane worms, as it enhances growth in young children. In addition to the nutrition that is derived from Mopane worms, they are a source of income for harvesters in rural areas. Mopane worms can be cooked dry or mixed with sauce.

Mopane worms can be cooked in so many ways, here is one of the varieties of Mopane worms’ recipe:

This recipe serves four to five people, and it takes about 1 hr. 30 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients

1. 350g Mopane worms (madora, amacimbi)
2. Enough boiling water to just cover the Mopane worms
3. 30 ml Sauce
4. 1 tsp salt
5. 3 tbsp oil
6.1 medium onion, finely chopped
7. 1 large tomato, finely chopped
8. 1 tsp finely minced garlic
9. 60 ml BBQ Sauce
10. Red peppers, chopped (optional)

Recipe

Source: Zimbokitchen.com

Source: Cooking with Funi