Snails are a delicacy, packed with essential nutrients, low in fat, and rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are commonly prepared in various dishes such as steamed, boiled, banana flower soup, or stir-fried with lemongrass and chili.
Despite their nutritional benefits, snails may raise concerns about hygiene as they are often sourced from canals and ditches, which can be muddy and unsanitary. Therefore, it is crucial to soak snails before cooking to ensure they expel any dirt or impurities.
Tips for Quick and Effective Snail Soaking
To ensure the snails expel any dirt and impurities, consider the following soaking methods:
Soak Snails in Salt and Chili Water
One of the simplest and most effective ways to clean snails is to soak them in salted chili water. Prepare a solution of 2-3 liters of water, 3 tablespoons of salt, and 3 sliced chilies. Soak the snails in this mixture for about 2 hours. The salt and chili will stimulate the snails to open their mouths and expel any dirt or mud.
After soaking, rinse the snails thoroughly under running water in a colander. They will be cleaner, less pungent, and ready for cooking.
There are several quick and effective tips for soaking snails to remove mud and dirt. (Photo: Pinterest)
Soak Snails in Rice Water
This traditional method involves soaking snails in rice water for 2-3 hours. The snails will open their mouths and expel mud and slime. Adding a few slices of chili to the rice water can enhance the cleaning process. Soaking snails in rice water also makes them more fragrant and flavorful. If rice water is not available, you can mix some flour with water as an alternative.
Soak Snails in a Metal Container
A less-known but effective trick is to soak snails in a metal container or pot, or even add metal spoons to the soaking vessel. Metal, when in contact with water, reacts to form hydrogen, reducing the oxygen levels in the water. This forces the snails to open their mouths and expel slime and mud.
After soaking, thoroughly rinse the snails under running water to ensure they are clean and ready for cooking.
Soak Snails with Eggs
To expedite the snail-soaking process, you can soak them in a bucket of water with a beaten egg. Leave it for 3-4 hours, and the snails will expel any dirt or mud. This method also makes the snail meat richer and more flavorful.
How to Boil Snails Deliciously
While there are numerous delicious snail dishes, boiled snails remain a favorite among Vietnamese. To prepare tasty boiled snails, line the bottom of a pot with crushed lemongrass, ginger, and chili. Add the cleaned snails, along with some fermented rice water and fresh water, and boil. The aromatic herbs help eliminate any fishy smell and enhance the flavor of the dish.
Boil the snails for about 2-3 minutes, just until their shells start to open. Overcooking may cause the snail meat to shrink and become tough. Remember not to lift the lid or stir the snails before the water boils vigorously.
According to VTC News
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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!
