Deeply rooted in Oaxacan tradition, chapulines are the toasted grasshoppers that have hopped through Oaxacan diets since pre-Hispanic times. Cleaned, toasted on a comal with garlic, lime and chile, they turn reddish and impossibly crunchy, with an earthy, nutty flavor somewhere between chicharrón and toasted seeds. Piled on tlayudas, sprinkled on guacamole, or eaten straight from the market bag, they are pure Oaxaca.
Chapulines
Deeply rooted in Oaxacan tradition, chapulines are the toasted grasshoppers that have hopped through Oaxacan diets since pre-Hispanic times.

Step by stepInstructions
- Rinse the chapulines in cool water and drain well, then pat them thoroughly dry with a clean towel.
- Warm a comal or wide skillet over medium heat and add the oil if using.
- Add the garlic and salt, crushing the garlic slightly with a spatula to release its aroma.
- Add the chapulines and toast, stirring constantly, until they turn reddish and crisp, 8 to 10 minutes.
- Squeeze the lime juice over them, dust with the ground chile, toss well and adjust salt. Serve warm with lime wedges.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Buy chapulines from a Mexican market or specialty store, already cleaned and dried — do not attempt to harvest your own. Keep them in a sealed jar after toasting so they stay crunchy.

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