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Fried Hormigas Culonas Recipe

Hormigas Culonas are large leaf-cutter ants that have been a popular delicacy in Santander, Colombia. These insects are usually female with another name “big-bottomed ants”. Harvested in springtime, hormigas culonas are usually fried or roasted with salt, and then served in small containers or bags.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Brining Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Colombian
Keyword: Culnonas, Hormigas Culonas
Servings: 4
Author: Izzy

Ingredients

  • 1 lb hormigas culonas
  • 1/4 cup salt
  • 4 cups water
  • vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  • Remove the ants’ legs and wings, and clean with water.
  • Add salt and water in a large bowl. Whisk until salt dissolves completely.
  • Soak the ants in salted water for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  • Dry the soaked ants with paper towel.
  • In a deep saucepan or deep-fat fryer, heat the oil to 350°F.
  • Deep-fry the ants in small batches about 2-3 minutes until they become crunchy and cooked through.
  • Remove the cooked ants from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain.
  • Season with more salt and serve.