When the grocery stores close and the freezer thaws out, the first thing you will miss is meat.
Protein is the hardest nutrient to scavenge in a city. You can find dandelion greens for vitamins and scavenge bread for carbs, but protein? That usually requires hunting.
Unless you look down.
In Chapter 7 of Survive From The Pantry, we introduce the concept of the “Gateway Bug.”
Most people would rather starve than eat a bug. That is a mistake that could cost you your life.
Why Crickets?
Crickets are the perfect survival protein. They are easy to catch, they are everywhere, and—believe it or not—they actually taste good.
We call them the “gateway bug” because once you try them, you realize the fear was all in your head.
The Taste Test
If you close your eyes, a roasted cricket tastes almost exactly like a roasted corn nut or a sunflower seed. It is nutty, savory, and crunchy.
The gross part isn’t the flavor; it’s the texture. If it’s squishy, it’s gross. If it’s crisp, it’s a chip.
How to Cook Them (The “Crisp” Rule)
Never, ever eat insects raw. They can carry parasites.
Here is the Protocol for preparing crickets
The Catch: Catch them in a jar. Avoid any from areas sprayed with pesticides.
The Prep: Pull off the legs and wings if you want (optional, but improves texture).
The Roast: Toss them in a dry skillet over your rocket stove.
The Crunch: Cook until they are bone-dry and crispy.
The Seasoning: Sprinkle with salt, chili powder, or garlic.
The Safety Rule: Colors Warning
Not all bugs are safe. Nature uses bright colors as a warning sign.
Avoid: Bright red, orange, or yellow bugs. Avoid anything hairy or smelly.
Eat: Brown, black, and green bugs (mostly).
Free Bonus: The Edible Insect Safety List
Do you know which common garden bugs are poisonous? Do you know how to farm mealworms in a drawer?
I have compiled the “Edible Insect Safety Chart” to keep you from eating the wrong thing.
Conquer the “yuck” factor. Stay alive.
— Protocol Redwood