“Superstition’s Snail Snack: An Ancient Warning for Modern Times”

In traditional beliefs, eating and drinking were often viewed from two perspectives: nutritional value and spiritual significance, with taboos influenced by habits, culture, and customs. Snails, a rustic delicacy, were commonly found in rural areas with abundant fields and wetlands. One of the age-old teachings passed down through generations, especially to homemakers, was to refrain from eating snails during the end and beginning of the lunar month:

Spiritual Perspective on Snail Taboo

According to folk beliefs, eating snails at the beginning of the lunar month (1st and 2nd days) is considered unlucky due to the notion of “talking without substance.” If one “talks without substance” at the start of the month, it is believed that bad luck will follow for the rest of the month.

The first day of the month is significant in Vietnamese culture as it marks the beginning of a new cycle. It is important to ensure a smooth start to the month to bring about good fortune. However, snails are associated with bad luck and “talking without substance.” Snails retreat into their shells, symbolizing a lack of clarity and something to be proud of. Therefore, to avoid bad luck, snails were not consumed at the beginning of the month. It is believed that eating snails during this time could lead to self-inflicted misfortune through one’s speech. It is thought to cause difficulties in communication, presentations, and negotiations, leading to misunderstandings, tension, and disharmony in relationships.

From a spiritual perspective, snails are also commonly used for life release practices. Those who abstain from killing or practice life release may consider snails as a significant choice. A single snail can carry numerous baby snails, and the beginning of the month is typically a time to refrain from taking life. Eating snails during this period would mean taking multiple lives at once, as a large number of snails are usually consumed in a meal. Abstaining from eating snails is believed to reduce bad luck and accumulate merit.

Practical Considerations for Food Quality

Nutritionally and in terms of culinary experience, consuming snails during the end and beginning of the lunar month is not ideal. Meticulous homemakers would avoid purchasing snails during these periods. This is because snails reproduce according to the lunar cycle. Towards the end and the beginning of the lunar month, snails are in their breeding phase, and their guts are likely to contain numerous baby snails, resulting in a gritty texture when consumed. Additionally, during this period, snails tend to be leaner, leading to a chewier and less sweet meat.

Hence, the wisdom passed down from our ancestors suggests that to enjoy the best-tasting snails, one should purchase them between the 5th and 20th of the lunar month. If snails are available at the beginning of the month, they can be kept in a bucket and fed egg yolks and rice water for a few days to ensure they release their offspring and regain their plumpness before cooking.

Tips for Choosing Delicious Snails

– To select fresh and tasty snails, place your finger near the opening of the snail’s shell. If it is alive and fresh, the snail will react by slightly retracting into its shell. If it remains stagnant, it is likely dead or weak.

– Delicious snails should have plump, meaty mouths. If the mouth is deeply recessed, the snail is likely underfed and lean.

– To encourage snails to expel their digestive tract, which contains dirt and impurities, soak them in a metal basin or add a metal knife, spoon, or chopsticks to the water. Alternatively, you can soak them in rice water or add chili peppers or egg yolks to speed up the process and ensure a thorough cleaning.