Cassia Caterpillars Command Vietnam’s Spring Menus With Crunchy Gold

Each golden caterpillar is purged, blanched, and sautéed with lime leaves, delivering a flavor punch and a texture described as “crunchy outside, creamy inside.” This offbeat high-protein snack, a staple of weird foods culture, sometimes leaves diners scratching—literally and figuratively.
Cassia caterpillars and pupae storm Vietnam’s spring stir-fry menus, fetching up to $16 per kilo and offering a crispy, nutty bite that rivals seafood prices.