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Bonjour les amis,
I love to cook and especially during festive meals like Christmas or Easter.
During these meals, we often eat snails considered as a luxury food.
In this article, I will share with you my thoughts about this French speciality which can be controversial when you are not French š
Have a nice day!
5 good reasons why french people eat snails
1. Cultural heritage
“ESCARGOTS” (snails in English) have been part of French cuisine for centuries, dating back to Roman times.
They have become a symbol of French gastronomy and are deeply ingrained in the culture.
Eating snails is a way for French people to connect with their history and culinary traditions.
2. Nutritional value
Snails are a good source of protein, low in fat, and contain essential nutrients such as iron, selenium, and vitamins E and B12.
Eating snails can be a healthy and nutritious choice for those seeking an alternative to other types of meat.
3. Environmental benefits
Snails are considered an eco-friendly food source.
They require fewer resources to raise than livestock and produce fewer greenhouse gases.
In a time when sustainable agriculture and reducing the environmental impact of food production are increasingly important, eating snails can be an environmentally responsible choice.
4. Culinary creativity
French cooking is known for its innovative and sophisticated dishes.
“Escargots” provide chefs with a unique ingredient to work with, allowing them to create inventive and flavorful dishes that showcase their culinary skills.
The use of herbs, garlic, and butter in the preparation of escargots is a classic example of French culinary expertise.
5. A unique dining experience
For many, trying escargots is a novel and exciting dining experience.
The taste and texture of snails, combined with the rich flavors of the sauces and seasonings, can make for a memorable and enjoyable meal.
By offering this unique delicacy, French cuisine provides food enthusiasts with the opportunity to explore new tastes and culinary experiences.
5 reasons why some people may choose not to eat snails
1. Ethical concerns
Some individuals may object to consuming snails due to ethical reasons, especially if they adhere to a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
They might view snail farming and consumption as a form of animal exploitation.
2. Allergies
Some people may have allergies to snails or the ingredients used in preparing them, such as mollusk or shellfish allergies.
Consuming snails could lead to an allergic reaction, which can range from mild to severe.
3. Food safety
Like other types of seafood, snails can carry parasites, bacteria, or toxins if they are not properly handled, stored, and cooked.
To avoid foodborne illnesses, it is important to ensure snails are sourced from reputable suppliers and prepared correctly.
4. Personal taste preferences
The taste and texture of snails may not appeal to everyone.
Some people might find the slimy texture or earthy flavor unpalatable, making snails an unappetizing food choice for them.
In some cultures, eating snails is not a common practice and might even be considered taboo.
People from these backgrounds may be hesitant to try snails due to social or cultural norms, or they may simply prefer to stick to the foods they are familiar with.
What does snail meat taste like?
Escargot is traditionally presented in a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce, often accompanied by (or placed on top of) crispy dipping bread. The taste of the snails themselves is relatively subtle, with many likening it to the flavor of mussels. They are known for their tender, chewy consistency, which adds to the overall culinary experience
Which region in france is famous for snails?
Burgundy snails are an iconic dish of Burgundy and French gastronomy.