Craving a unique and unforgettable culinary adventure? Look no further than this recipe for Coconut Fried Snails, a vibrant and delicious Vietnamese street food staple known as Ốc hút. This dish transcends the ordinary, offering a surprising blend of textures and flavors. The snails, tender and succulent, are perfectly complemented by the rich, creamy coconut milk infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Imagine the satisfying crunch of the lightly fried exterior giving way to the soft, savory snail meat within – a true explosion of taste in every bite. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey to Vietnam, right in your own kitchen.
This recipe guides you through each step, from preparing the snails to achieving that perfect golden-brown crispness. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this detailed, step-by-step guide will empower you to recreate the magic of Vietnamese Ốc hút at home. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this extraordinary dish – let's dive into the recipe!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Pan
- Basket
Ingredients
- Snails: 2 kg
- Rice water or rice flour: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Lemongrass: a few stalks
- Cooking oil: 3 tablespoons
- Minced onion and garlic: 2 tablespoons
- Coconut milk: 1-1.2 liters
- Sugar: 120 grams
- Seasoning powder: 1 tablespoon
- Chili: a little
- Vietnamese coriander: to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Snails
- Thoroughly wash the snails to remove mud and dirt. Soak them in rice water or rice flour for 30 minutes to 1 hour to further clean them and loosen dirt from the shells.
- Cut off the snail tails, leaving about three spirals. Wash again to remove any broken shell pieces.
- Wash the snails again thoroughly, ensuring all debris and shell fragments are removed.
- Boil water with salt and lemongrass. Blanch the snails for 2-3 minutes until the water boils again. Drain well.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook Snails
- Heat oil in a pan. Sauté minced onion and garlic until fragrant. Add sliced lemongrass and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the blanched snails to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes over medium-high heat.
- Add coconut milk and stir well. Increase heat slightly and continue stir-frying for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3. Simmer in Coconut Milk
- Reduce heat to low. Add coconut water (enough to almost cover the snails), sugar, seasoning powder, and salt. Stir to dissolve the spices.
- Simmer on low heat for 7-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Before turning off the heat, add chili and Vietnamese coriander. Stir well.
- Serve hot.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Careful washing of the snails is crucial, especially since this dish is eaten by sucking.
- Don't overcook the onions and garlic; only cook until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- When adding coconut milk, cook on low heat to prevent it from becoming oily.
- The chili adds color and fragrance, not necessarily spice. Adjust the amount of Vietnamese coriander to your preference; it helps balance the richness of the coconut milk.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1800-2200
- Fat: 120-150g
- Carbs: 70-90g
- Protein: 60-70g
FAQs
1. Where can I find snails for this recipe?
Specialty Asian markets or seafood markets are your best bet. Look for small, live snails, often labeled 'Vietnamese sucking snails' or similar.
2. How do I clean the snails properly?
Soak the snails in salted water for several hours to purge them of impurities. Then, use a small brush to scrub them thoroughly and remove any debris.
3. Can I substitute coconut milk?
While coconut milk is crucial for the flavor, you could try a light coconut cream as a substitute, but the result might be slightly different.
This Coconut Fried Snails recipe offers a unique and rewarding culinary experience, transporting you to the vibrant street food scene of Vietnam with each delicious bite. The satisfying blend of textures and flavors makes this dish a memorable culinary adventure, perfect for sharing with friends and family. So gather your ingredients, and embark on this exciting cooking journey today!