Chocolate, cream and insects anyone?

I have an assortment of kitchen toys that makes it possible for me to slice and dice, whip and knead, grill, bake and fry with the best of home chefs. One of my favorite is my Cuisinart ice cream maker. I’m not bragging but, I can freeze a half gallon of creamy custard or sorbet in a matter of minutes.

Admittedly, it wouldn’t win a blue ribbon if put in competition with a good old fashioned ice cream maker, but it might place a close second. I like to make up my own flavors. Fresh fruit in season is always a delish choice and of course who’d turn down cookie dough or candy pieces blended in with the creamy custard but…

I saw on the news the other day an ice cream store in Columbia, MO self advertises they push the limits on ice cream flavors, so they added a new one to their menu. They said it not only tasted good, but helped control summer pests. Hmm, do I have your attention? I imagine so.

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The employees of the ice cream store scoured fence lines, trees, vines and flowers in their backyards and collected cicadas. Yes, cicada’s – you read it correctly. They made and served cicada ice cream.

Dewinged and boiled first, the cicadas were tossed in brown sugar and chocolate before being blended into a brown sugar flavored custard. Of course they saved a few wings for the top layer of your cone. Reportedly, their newest flavor sold out in the first hour.

I’m sorry for this story, kind of. I couldn’t resist writing about it. It intrigued me. I love trying new dishes and treats in the kitchen, but it has never occurred to me to serve those noisy buzzing insects in a parfait glass! It's difficult enough to get the grandkids to eat brussel sprouts. Can you imagine asking them to collect insects from the backyard to make yummy ice cream?

I know in many places insects are considered a real treat. I don’t wish to offend anyone who enjoys a crunchy chocolate covered grasshopper from time to time, but I’m from the Midwest USA. Did you read the last blog entry about biscuits and gravy?

Maybe, I should be more open-minded. Maybe I shouldn't knock it until I've tried it.

I guess I could ask the grandkid's to find some lady bugs in the garden tomorrow. I’ll bake cupcakes and I’m all out of sprinkles.