Escargot

Introduction 

Escargot is a classic French dish that is made from snails cooked in a garlic-butter sauce. It is one of the most popular dishes in French cuisine, with a rich history and a unique flavor. Escargot is also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a great option for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal. 

Ease of Preparation

Despite its gourmet reputation, escargot is actually quite easy to prepare. All you need is some snails, butter, garlic, shallots, white wine, parsley, salt, pepper, thyme, lemon juice, and olive oil. Simply sauté the ingredients together and add the snails to the mixture. Cook until the snails are tender, and you’ll have a delicious and indulgent meal. 

Nutritional Information

Escargot is a surprisingly healthy dish. A single serving of escargot contains only about 100 calories, making it a great option for those looking to watch their weight. It is also high in protein, with about 8 grams per serving. Plus, escargot is a good source of iron, zinc, and other essential minerals. 

Ingredients

– Snails 

– Butter 

– Garlic 

– Shallots 

– White wine 

– Parsley 

– Salt 

– Pepper 

– Thyme 

– Lemon juice 

– Olive oil

Preparation Method

To prepare escargot, start by sautéing the butter, garlic, shallots, white wine, parsley, salt, pepper, thyme, and lemon juice in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the mixture is fragrant and bubbling, add the snails to the pan. Cook the snails for about 5 minutes, or until they are tender. Serve the escargot with a drizzle of olive oil and some crusty bread. 

Cooking Tips

When cooking escargot, it is important to use the freshest ingredients possible. Fresh snails are best, but canned snails can also be used. If using canned snails, be sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the skillet. Additionally, be sure to use freshly minced garlic and shallots for the best flavor. 

Flavour/Taste

Escargot has a rich, buttery flavor that is complemented by the savory garlic, shallots, and herbs. The snails themselves have a mild flavor that is slightly sweet and slightly salty. The combination of all the flavors creates a unique and indulgent experience. 

Best Dishes Paired With

Escargot is best served with a side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes. The bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic-butter sauce, while the potatoes provide a comforting and creamy accompaniment. Additionally, escargot pairs well with a light white wine or a crisp rosé. 

Origin of Dish and History

Escargot has been a popular dish in France for centuries. The first known recipe for escargot dates back to the 17th century, when it was served as a delicacy to wealthy French aristocrats. Since then, escargot has become a staple of French cuisine and can be found on menus throughout the country. 

Popular Alternatives

If you’re looking for a similar dish to escargot, try making Coquilles Saint-Jacques. This French dish is made with scallops that are cooked in a creamy sauce and served with a side of mashed potatoes. It has a similar flavor to escargot and is just as indulgent.