Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Rocky Mountain Oysters (Bull testicles)




Despite the name, Rocky mountain oysters are actually testicles from a bull. They are removed at birth, cut off and thrown in a bucket of water. They are then peeled, washed, rolled in flour and pepper, and fried in a pan. They are said to be extremely delicious with a neutral, slightly liver-like flavor, and have a chewy texture...YUM! They can be cooked in several ways, including deep-fried, cut into broad, thin slices, or marinated. They are mainly found in the western United States, but are also served in Asia. Restaurants usually serve them with a great amount of salt and pepper to add a little extra kick!Click the link below for a recipe, and enjoy!
-Danielle

http://www.cooksrecipes.com/appetizer/rocky-mountain-oysters-recipe.html 



Chapulines- Mexican Grasshopper

If you look at this picture, and think it looks gross, you might want to just give it a try.  Grasshoppers, also known as chapulines, are very popular in Mexico, and are usu served in tacos.  They have a very crunchy texture and are also extremely nutritious, famous for their source of high protein. Chapulines are sometimes sold in the streets of Mexican markets.  The grasshoppers are collected from fields at night wrge nets and are then soaked in water. After this, there are many ways that they can be prepared. Some are sun dried, and others are boiled, fried, baked, or even eaten raw.  Raw chapulines can be dangerous however, because they may contain parasites. Click the link below to try this delicious snack. -Danielle
Recipe:

DOG FOR DINNER?!

Have you ever thought about eating your pet dog? Most Americans would be shocked to find out that dog, also known as gou-rou, is commonly found at Korean restaurants in Beijing.  Some people believe that eating a dog is  cruel, but in reality, it is not much different than eating a cow or a chicken! There are a few traditional dishes made with the use of this unique ingredient, the most common being a stew called boshintang. Click below for a recipe of this delicious cuisine!
-Danielle
Also, watch these videos to explore the experience of an American trying dog for the first time!

Rat Adobo






The Philippines are known for their many exotic foods including cat, snake, and lizards.  But most people have never even thought about taking a bite out of a rat.  Rats, better known as Adobo, are either fried or roasted.  They are extremely clean animals, because they only feed on rice.  The cooking process includes skinning them, cutting off their head, tail, legs, and finally, taking out their internal organs.  This process may seem repulsive, but the end result is extremely flavorful, so if your looking for something new to try, go for it!
-Danielle