Belalang Goreng (Yogyakarta): A Guide to Indonesia’s Crunchy Extreme Snack

For many people, the idea of eating insects might sound strange or even off-putting. But in Gunungkidul, a region in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, fried grasshoppers—locally known as walang goreng—are a beloved snack and a true culinary icon. Often described as tasting like shrimp or crab, these crispy critters are a testament to the region’s creativity and resourcefulness. Far from being a mere novelty, this extreme food has become a staple snack and a popular souvenir for adventurous travelers.

For those who want to explore other unique snacks from around the world, escamoles from Mexico or fried tarantula from Cambodia offer similarly crispy, protein-packed experiences.

So, what exactly is this dish? As the title suggests, Belalang Goreng (Yogyakarta) consists of grasshoppers fried to perfection with savory spices like garlic and coriander. The result is a delightfully crunchy texture with a flavor that surprises many first-timers, often compared to small shrimp or crab. The seasoning is simple but effective, creating a savory, umami-packed snack that’s hard to resist. It’s commonly sold in plastic packages or as ready-to-eat skewers along the roads connecting Yogyakarta to Wonosari.

This extreme snack is also high in protein, making it a nutritious option as well. If you’re curious about other high-protein snacks from different cultures, check out shiokara from Japan or witchetty grub from Australia.

Want to dive deeper into the world of edible insects? Read the UN Food and Agriculture Organization’s report on edible insects.

Key Insight: Walang goreng is more than just a snack—it’s a cultural symbol of Gunungkidul’s resourcefulness, transforming a simple insect into a flavorful delicacy.

How Fried Grasshoppers Are Made

The process of making belalang goreng is a skill passed down through generations. Here’s how it typically happens:

• Step 1: First, the grasshoppers are caught, usually from teak trees or bushes. The most common type is the wood grasshopper.
• Step 2: Then, they are thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or impurities from their bodies.
• Step 3: Next, the grasshoppers are seasoned with a simple mixture of crushed garlic, coriander, and salt. For a spicy version, chili is added.
• Step 4: After that, they are deep-fried until golden brown and incredibly crispy.
• Step 5: Finally, they are drained and served as a crunchy snack or a side dish.

For other traditional extreme foods with unique preparation methods, you might also enjoy reading about surströmming from Sweden or fermented shark from Iceland.

— the seasoning and preparation process for authentic Gunungkidul fried grasshoppers.

Why is it Considered Extreme Food?

For many cultures, insects are not a standard part of the diet. This makes belalang goreng an extreme culinary adventure for most tourists. The very idea of eating a whole insect, head, legs, and all, can be a mental hurdle.

However, those who overcome their hesitation are often rewarded. Many say the flavor is a lot like shrimp, crab, or even fried chicken, but with a crunchier texture. This extreme food is a perfect example of how “weird” dishes can be surprisingly delicious, making it a must-try for thrill-seeking foodies. It’s a snack that is both a conversation starter and a great story to tell.

For more extreme culinary stories, discover the tradition of snake wine in Vietnam or fugu in Japan.

Where to Find Walang Goreng

Finding this snack is part of the fun. You can find it in many places in the Gunungkidul regency:

• Street-side stalls: Many vendors sell them along the Yogyakarta-Wonosari road, especially in areas like Desa Bunder, Kecamatan Patuk.
• Souvenir shops: You can easily find packaged belalang goreng at souvenir centers and markets throughout the region.
• Specialty shops: Places like “Belalang goreng Kismi Extreem Food” in Wonosari offer both cooked and raw versions for you to cook at home.

Prices range from IDR 25,000 to IDR 50,000 for a small jar, depending on the season and packaging.

If you’re planning a food adventure in Asia, you might also want to try balut in the Philippines or sannakji in South Korea.

For more information on Indonesian food and culture, visit the official Indonesian tourism website.