Sago worm

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The Sago worm or Sago grub (si’et), is the larvae of the Capricorn Beetle (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus|Rhynchophorus ferrugineus/bilineatus). It lives and feeds on the starchy pulp of the trunk of the sago palm (after which it takes its name), which is common in the wetter fresh water swampy parts of Southeast Asia. Sago worm also can be found in other starch bearing palm like Pantu palm and Aping palm found in the interior of Borneo.It is regarded as a special high-nutrient delicacy among most Sarawak tribes such as the Melanau.

Sago worms have a plump, yellowy-cream body with a soft-ridged texture and a hard-shelled head. On close examination the body can be seen to be covered by fine hair.

Sago grubs taste like meat and are often smoked/roasted or fried. Sometimes consumed raw with sago.

Sago Delight, Kadazan or Fried Sago Worms is a speciality in Malaysia, although versions of this dish can be found in many South-east Asian countries and Papua New Guinea.

In Papua New Guinea sago worms are roasted on a spit to celebrate special occasions.