Snails have been a part of the culinary world for centuries, with various cultures embracing these slimy creatures as a delicacy. From the French to the Spanish, Italians, and even Greeks, snails have been a staple in many cuisines. But have you ever wondered what cooked snails are called? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of escargot, exploring its history, cultural significance, and the different ways it’s prepared and consumed.
A Brief History of Escargot
The practice of eating snails dates back to ancient times, with evidence of snail consumption found in the Roman Empire, Greece, and even in prehistoric times. However, it was the French who popularized escargot as a delicacy, with the dish becoming a staple in French cuisine during the 18th century. The word “escargot” itself is French, derived from the word “escaragol,” meaning “snail.”
Snail Farming and Trade
Snail farming, also known as heliciculture, has become a significant industry in many countries, with France being one of the largest producers of edible snails. Snails are typically farmed in controlled environments, where they’re fed a diet of vegetables and grains. The snails are then harvested, cleaned, and prepared for consumption.
Cultural Significance of Escargot
Escargot has played a significant role in many cultures, often symbolizing luxury, sophistication, and fine dining. In France, escargot is a staple in many restaurants, particularly in the Burgundy region, where it’s often served as an appetizer. In Spain, snails are a popular ingredient in paella, while in Italy, they’re often served with garlic and herbs.
Escargot in Modern Cuisine
Today, escargot is enjoyed not only in traditional French cuisine but also in modern fusion dishes. Chefs around the world are experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, incorporating escargot into innovative recipes. From snail-based sauces to snail-stuffed ravioli, the possibilities are endless.
Preparation and Consumption of Escargot
Escargot is typically prepared by cooking snails in their shells, often with garlic butter, parsley, and white wine. The snails are then removed from their shells and served as an appetizer or main course. In some cultures, snails are also consumed raw, often with a squeeze of lemon and a dash of salt.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook escargot, including:
- Steaming: Steaming is a popular method for cooking escargot, as it helps preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the snails.
- Roasting: Roasting escargot in the oven brings out the natural sweetness of the snails, often enhanced with herbs and spices.
- Sauteing: Sauteing escargot in garlic butter is a classic French method, often served as an appetizer.
Health Benefits of Escargot
Escargot is not only a delicacy but also a nutritious food, rich in protein, iron, and other essential minerals. Snails are also low in calories and fat, making them an attractive option for health-conscious foodies.
Nutritional Value of Escargot
| Nutrient | Value (per 100g serving) |
| — | — |
| Protein | 15g |
| Iron | 3.5mg |
| Calcium | 100mg |
| Potassium | 400mg |
| Calories | 90 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, cooked snails are called escargot, a delicacy that has been enjoyed for centuries in many cultures. From its rich history to its cultural significance and nutritional value, escargot is a culinary experience that’s not to be missed. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or simply a curious diner, escargot is definitely worth trying.
Trying Escargot for the First Time
If you’re new to escargot, here are a few tips for trying it for the first time:
- Start with a small serving to get accustomed to the texture and flavor.
- Try different cooking methods, such as steaming or roasting, to find your preferred taste.
- Pair escargot with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the flavor.
By embracing the world of escargot, you’ll not only discover a new culinary delight but also experience the rich cultural heritage behind this beloved delicacy.
What are cooked snails called?
Cooked snails are commonly referred to as escargots. This term is widely used in French cuisine, where snails are considered a delicacy. Escargots are typically cooked in garlic butter and served as an appetizer.
The term ‘escargot’ is derived from the French word for snail, and it has become synonymous with cooked snails in many parts of the world. Escargots are a popular dish in fine dining restaurants and are often served at special occasions.
What is the origin of escargots?
Escargots have their roots in French cuisine, where snails have been consumed for centuries. The dish is believed to have originated in the Burgundy region of France, where snails were abundant and considered a delicacy.
The French perfected the art of cooking snails, and escargots became a staple in French cuisine. The dish was often served at special occasions and was considered a luxury food item. Today, escargots are enjoyed not only in France but also in many other parts of the world.
How are escargots typically cooked?
Escargots are typically cooked in garlic butter, which is a classic French way of preparing snails. The snails are usually purged of their slime and then cooked in a mixture of butter, garlic, and parsley.
The garlic butter sauce is a key component of escargots, and it adds a rich and flavorful taste to the dish. The snails are usually cooked in their shells, which are filled with the garlic butter sauce. This allows the flavors to penetrate the snail meat and creates a delicious and tender dish.
What type of snails are used for escargots?
The type of snail used for escargots is usually the edible snail, also known as Helix pomatia. This species of snail is native to Europe and is prized for its tender and flavorful meat.
The edible snail is considered the best species for escargots due to its size, flavor, and texture. The snails are usually harvested in the wild or farmed specifically for human consumption. They are then purged and cooked to create the delicious dish of escargots.
Are escargots a healthy food option?
Escargots are considered a healthy food option due to their high protein and low fat content. Snails are also rich in iron, calcium, and other essential minerals.
However, escargots are often cooked in butter and garlic, which can add calories and fat to the dish. Moderation is key when consuming escargots, and it’s essential to balance the dish with other healthy food options.
Can I make escargots at home?
Yes, you can make escargots at home, but it requires some preparation and effort. You will need to purchase edible snails, purge them of their slime, and cook them in garlic butter.
To make escargots at home, you can follow a simple recipe that involves cooking the snails in garlic butter and serving them in their shells. You can also add other ingredients such as parsley, thyme, and white wine to create a more flavorful dish.
Are escargots a popular dish around the world?
Escargots are a popular dish in many parts of the world, particularly in Europe and North America. They are often served in fine dining restaurants and are considered a delicacy.
However, escargots are not as widely consumed in other parts of the world, such as Asia and Africa. In some cultures, snails are not considered a food item, and escargots may be seen as an exotic or unusual dish.