What concept explains why mint-fed crickets taste minty or why chili powder can transform a profile?
Answer
Flavor malleability
The concept of flavor malleability is critical to understanding how insects, particularly species like crickets, are utilized culinarily. This term refers to the insect's remarkable capacity to readily adopt and retain the flavor profiles of their feed or the ingredients used in preparation. For example, if crickets are fed a diet rich in mint, they will acquire a minty taste, and external additions like chili powder or lemon zest can completely redefine their final flavor profile. This quality leads to insects being frequently described as flavor vehicles, similar to how neutral bases like potatoes or chips carry strong seasonings.
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