Fried spider

Fried spider is a distinctive delicacy particularly popular in Skuon, Cambodia. Known locally as "a-ping" these spiders are about the size of a human palm and cost approximately 300 riel each. They belong to the tarantula species Haplopelma albostriatum, also known as the Thai zebra tarantula.

The tradition of consuming spiders in Cambodia likely began during the Khmer Rouge regime when food was scarce. The spiders are either bred in ground burrows or foraged from nearby forests before being fried in oil. The recipe, which gained popularity in the 1990s, typically includes MSG, sugar, salt, and garlic.

In terms of taste, fried spiders are often described as having a flavor that is somewhat bland, resembling a mix between chicken and cod. They feature a crispy exterior and a soft interior. While the legs are sparse in meat, the head and body contain a delicate white flesh. However, the abdomen can be somewhat off-putting to some, as it contains a paste of organs, possibly eggs, and excrement.

Interestingly, tarantulas are also eaten in other parts of the world. For instance, in Mexico, they are sometimes served in tacos accompanied by guacamole. Nonetheless, the sale of many tarantula species for human consumption is illegal in Mexico, and vendors offering these spider delicacies have faced legal repercussions.