Snails: An Overview

Snails are a type of gastropod mollusk living in a wide variety of habitats including freshwater, marine, and terrestrial environments. Most are terrestrial creatures, making homes in gardens, woodlots and other places in nature where they feed on plants and decaying material. These gastropods have an external shell that is usually coiled, and sometimes grooved or ribbed, along with one or two pairs of tentacles on the head. They use these tentacles to locate food, and their sole mode of transportation is gliding along on a thick layer of mucus secreted by their own bodies.

What is Escargot?

Escargot, translated as ‘snail’ from the French language, is snails that have been either culled from the wild or have been farmed and harvested for consumption. A traditional French delicacy, escargot’s are most commonly served as an appetizer. To prepare them for consumption, snails are removed from their shells, peeled and either boiled or grilled before being seasoned with butter, herbs and spices. Some chefs also add garlic and other flavorings. Once cooked, they are placed back in the shell where they can be served directly in their shells with a variety of sauces.

Cooking with Escargot

Escargot is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. From garlic escargot to escargot puffs, there are many ways to serve up this shellfish delicacy. Additionally, escargot can be used as a protein source in salads, pasta dishes, soups, quiches and other savory dishes. The cooked meat can also be stuffed in vegetables or used to make sauces and gravies.

Regardless of the recipe, escargot is certain to provide an interesting flavor and unique texture to whatever dish it goes into. And what’s more, these delectable morsels are also low-fat, low-cholesterol and high in protein, making them healthy and tasty treats!