Most people will rinse and soak the snails in rice water with some chili peppers. This method is not necessarily wrong, but it will not be able to clean all the mud and dirt from the snails.
So, is there a way to thoroughly clean the snails? According to an experienced chef, cleaning snails is not difficult, but not many people know how to do it properly. To effectively remove mud and parasitic worms from the snails, sesame oil and white vinegar should be used. For detailed instructions, please refer to the steps outlined below.
Ingredients
– Snails
– Salt
– Sesame oil
– White vinegar
– Water
The quickest and most effective way to clean snails
1. Rinse the snails in a basket several times with clean water to remove any mud or dirt from the surface.
2. Use a brush or steel wool to scrub each snail vigorously. This will help remove all the mud and algae that are firmly attached to the shell and cannot be removed by regular washing.
3. After the first two steps, the snails will appear almost clean, but in reality, there is still some dirt inside the hard shell. To remove this, you must soak the snails in warm water at a temperature between 36 – 40 degrees Celsius. The warm environment will encourage the snails to expel mud and parasitic worms more quickly.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of vinegar, and 5 – 10 drops of sesame oil to the snail-soaking basin. These ingredients will accelerate the snails’ release of mud while also cleaning them. Remember to stir the snails with your hand 2 – 3 times and then soak them for about 60 minutes.
5. After this period, the snails will have expelled most of the mud and silt. When you lift the snails out of the water, you will easily notice a significant amount of dirt and parasitic worms (if any) at the bottom of the basin. Rinse the snails 2 – 3 times with water, and they are ready to be cooked.
Suggested Delicious Snail Dishes
Snails can be used to prepare a variety of delicious dishes, including the following:
1. Steamed Snails with Ginger Leaves
Steamed snails with ginger leaves is a popular dish favored by many. Mince the snail meat and mix it with wood ear mushrooms and raw pork sausage. Season with salt and pepper, and then stir to combine. Place the seasoned snail meat in ginger leaves and wrap them up. Arrange the wrapped snail meat on a steamer and steam until cooked.
The dish has a rich and flavorful taste. It is best enjoyed with a side of ginger fish sauce.
2. Snails Cooked with Tofu and Green Bananas
This is a simple yet delicious dish made with snails, tofu, and green bananas. Boil the snails, remove the meat from the shells, and set aside. Peel the green bananas and blanch them briefly. Cut the tofu into cubes and fry until golden brown. Cut the pork belly into pieces and marinate with salt, MSG, and turmeric powder.
Heat some cooking oil and stir-fry the marinated pork belly until it changes color. Add the snail meat and stir-fry together. Pour in one bowl of water, cover the pot, and turn up the heat. When the soup boils, add the green bananas, tofu, and a spoonful of mashed fermented rice. Cook until the meat and bananas are tender and the soup thickens, then add chopped scallions, perilla, and sliced chili peppers.
The dish features a delightful combination of chewy snail meat, tender pork belly, and soft bananas and tofu, all infused with the flavors of the spices.
3. Stir-fried Snails
Stir-fried snails is another tasty snail dish that you should not miss. To prepare this dish, heat some cooking oil and sauté ginger, star anise, and bay leaves. Then, add the snails and stir-fry them with the spices and white wine. Cook the snails over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked.
Note: For stir-fried snails, it is recommended to cut off the pointed end of the snail shells to make them easier to eat.
Lion Conch: A Delectable Delicacy from the Coastal Region of Co To, Vietnam.
The Lion’s Paw snail is a delicacy native to the Co To coastal region, often mistaken for its look-alike, the spiny sea urchin. With its distinct flavor and texture, this snail is a culinary treasure waiting to be discovered. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey as we unravel the secrets of this unique delicacy.
The Secret to Getting Snails to Purge Mud and Slime Before Cooking
Introducing the ultimate guide to preparing delicious and clean snails! For food enthusiasts who adore this delicacy, we’re revealing a secret technique to ensure your snails are free from any slime and ready for cooking within just 30 minutes. Whether you prefer boiling, steaming, or grilling your snails, this method will ensure they are perfectly prepared and ready for your favorite recipes. Stay tuned to discover the magic formula that will elevate your snail dishes to the next level!