As more cicadas appear in the Chicago area, the cicada frenzy is real — and some are increasingly curious about tasting the big-eyed insects.
A suburban Chicago brewery is getting in on the tasting craze by creating a “cicada-infused Malört.”
“Get ready for a unique experience,” Noon Whistle Brewing in Lombard posted on Instagram. “We’re excited to unveil our locally harvested cicada-infused Malört at Lombard Brewpub!
According to the Instagram post, cicadas have a “flavor sensation similar to lobster.” Customers can also add their own cicada husks for “extra flavor.”
“Want to take your cicada-infused Malört fix to the next level? Bring your preserved cicada hulls and infuse your drink with even more of that unique flavor,” the post continues. “It’s the ultimate personalized alcoholic cicada broth experience.”
The post says eating cicadas is safe, nutritious and high in protein, but advises guests with seafood allergies to stay away.
That’s because cicadas and shellfish actually contain the same protein, explained Dr. Sindhura Bandi, an allergy and immunology specialist at Rush University Medical Center.
Cicadas are also safe for dogs, experts say. According to Allen Lawrence, associate curator of entomology at the Peggy Notebaert Museum of Nature, cicadas will likely be considered a tasty treat for many animals.
“When it comes to bugs, they’re very big and meaty. They have a lot of nutrients. It’s a big meal just catching a bug,” Lawrence told NBC Chicago.
However, consumption must be monitored.
Although cicadas are not toxic to pets, gastrointestinal upset may occur if a pet consumes too many cicadas or their discarded ‘shells’ (exoskeletons), says an alert from the Department of Animal Control and Conservation. Cook County rabies. “Intestinal obstruction or perforation This could occur when exoskeletons move through the gastrointestinal tract, particularly if a small animal consumes many cicadas over a short period of time. »
At Noon Whistle Brewing, the cicada-infused Malört will be available on-site only. Human customers are encouraged to stop by and try the Chicago-style creation responsibly.
“Thanks to our expert preparation, you can enjoy this delicacy with complete confidence.”
NBC Chicago
