How to Fry Snail in Nigeria: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

Are you a foodie looking to try out a unique delicacy? Or a tourist visiting Nigeria and curious about the local cuisine? Either way, you cannot miss out on trying fried snails, a popular dish in Nigeria. In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of how to fry snail in Nigeria, from selecting the snails to serving the dish.

What are snails?

Before we delve into the cooking process, it is essential to understand what snails are. Snails are mollusks with a spiral-shaped shell on their back. They are commonly found in gardens, forests, and water bodies. In Nigeria, snails are considered a delicacy and are usually served as a side dish or a main course.

How to select snails for frying

The first step in preparing fried snail is selecting the right snails. You can either buy live snails from the market or get them already cleaned and prepared. When selecting live snails, choose those that are healthy and active. Avoid those that are slimy or have a foul smell as they could be spoiled.

If you are getting already cleaned snails, ensure they are fresh and have no foul smell. They should be firm and have a nice pink color.

Cleaning and preparing the snails

Once you have selected the snails, it's time to prepare them for cooking. Start by washing them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or slime. Next, place the snails in a pot of boiling water and allow them to cook for about 5 minutes. This helps to remove the slime and make it easier to remove the shells.

After cooking, remove the snails from the pot and place them in cold water for about 10 minutes. This helps to stop the cooking process and make it easier to remove the shells. Once the snails are cool, remove the shells by using a toothpick or a small fork.

Finally, rinse the snails with clean water to remove any remaining slime or dirt. Your snails are now ready for frying.

Ingredients for frying snails

To fry snail in Nigeria, you will need the following ingredients:

• Cleaned snails
• Flour
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs
• Salt
• Pepper
• Vegetable oil

How to fry snails

Now that you have cleaned and prepared the snails and have all the necessary ingredients, it's time to start frying. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fry snail in Nigeria:

1. Season the snails with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Prepare the coating mixture by beating the eggs in a bowl and adding a pinch of salt.

3. Pour the flour and breadcrumbs into separate bowls.

4. Dip each snail in the flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

5. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan until hot.

6. Fry the snails in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.

7. Remove the fried snails from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain the excess oil.

Your fried snails are now ready to be served.

Serving suggestion for fried snails

Fried snails can be served as a side dish with rice, yam, or potatoes, or as a main course with a salad. It is also often enjoyed as a snack with a cold drink. You can serve the fried snails with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as honey mustard or chili sauce.

Conclusion

Fried snail is a popular delicacy in Nigeria enjoyed by both locals and visitors. Preparing fried snails may seem like a daunting task, but with this guide, you can easily make it at home. Follow the step-by-step guide, and you will have a delicious dish to impress your friends and family.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to eat snails?

Yes, it is safe to eat snails as long as they are properly cleaned and cooked.

2. Can I fry snails without removing the shells?

No, you cannot fry snails with shells. The shells need to be removed before frying.

3. Can I use other coatings besides flour and breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use other coatings such as cornmeal or crushed crackers.

4. What other dishes can I make with snails?

In Nigeria, snails are also used in soups and stews, such as pepper soup and okra soup.

5. Can I freeze fried snails?

Yes, you can freeze fried snails. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat the snails in the oven or microwave before serving.