Although they may look unappetizing, sea worms are considered a delicacy in Northern Vietnam. The best sea worms come from Tu Ky in Hai Duong province, and their unique flavor and high nutritional value make them a memorable treat. Buying sea worms requires some insider knowledge; otherwise, you might end up with inferior-quality worms.
## How to Select the Best Sea Worms:
When purchasing sea worms, look for larger worms with plump bodies and a vibrant red color that are still alive and wriggling actively. These are the freshest and most delicious.
According to experienced sellers, it’s best to choose only the healthiest worms from the top layer. Often, the worms at the bottom are crushed and give off a rancid odor, affecting their taste.
Additionally, avoid worms with small, thin bodies that are sluggish or barely moving, as these are likely to be dying and won’t taste as good.
## Cleaning and Preparing Sea Worms:
When you get your fresh sea worms home, it’s important to clean them gently. Place them in a basin of water and use your hands or chopsticks to gently nudge them, being careful not to rupture their bodies. Clean them about three times to ensure all the mud and dirt are removed.
It’s crucial to also remove the worms’ fine hairs, which can cause an itchy throat if ingested. Simply blanch the worms in water heated to 80-90°C, stirring gently with chopsticks. Repeat this process 2-3 times until all the hairs are gone, and then rinse the worms thoroughly before cooking them to your liking.
## Proper Storage and Thawing of Sea Worms:
As sea worms are seasonal, you’ll need to freeze them if you want to enjoy them year-round. Here’s how to do it right:
– Only freeze fresh, live sea worms, and make sure to clean and prepare them properly before freezing. Remove any mud, debris, and weak or dead worms.
– Place the cleaned worms in a storage container and freeze. It’s best to portion them into individual meal sizes so you can thaw only what you need for each meal.
– To thaw frozen sea worms, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator to defrost gradually. Do not use a microwave or cold water, as this can lead to dangerous bacterial growth.
– Don’t keep sea worms frozen for extended periods.
*Source: Phu Nu Viet Nam*
