Snail Soup

Snail Soup

　　Snail Soup not only features tender snail meat, but its broth is also especially praised for its umami flavor—reminiscent of seafood yet distinct from it. The preparation method is meticulous: first, the purchased snails are kept in clean water with some iron content for several days, with the water changed twice daily to allow them to expel all internal impurities. On the sidewalks along the middle section of Renmin Road in Guiping urban area, every evening, a wide variety of snack stalls are on display, and nearly every one of them serves Snail Soup.

　　In Guiping City, a diverse array of snack stalls fills the streets. Among the many different street foods, Snail Soup stands out as particularly eye-catching. There are many ways to enjoy snails, but the most common is in soup form. Snail Soup not only features tender snail meat, but its broth is also especially praised for its umami flavor—reminiscent of seafood yet distinct from it—thus attracting a large number of diners.

　　【Preparation Method】

　　The preparation of Snail Soup is very particular: first, the purchased snails are kept in clean water with some iron content for several days, with the water changed twice daily to allow them to expel all internal impurities.

　　Before cooking, the snails are first brushed to remove any moss and mud on their shells, then the pointed tail ends are cut off with scissors. The snails are then placed in a pot of water to boil. Once boiled, they are taken out, the shells’ tops are removed to allow seasonings and oil to penetrate. Cooking begins with high heat stir-frying of the snails, adding a small amount of oil, salt, and wine to eliminate the fishy smell. Then ginger slices, cassia twigs, and pork bone broth are added and simmered together. Before serving, a bit more oil, salt, mashed garlic, chili, perilla, and either shiso or betel leaves are stir-fried briefly. The dish is served with the snail broth.

　　After preparation, the snail meat becomes crisp and tender, while the broth is rich and delicious, offering a uniquely indescribable wild flavor.

　　【Nutritional Value】

　　Snails are rich in protein, vitamin C, calcium, and other nutrients. In traditional Chinese medicine, they can be used medicinally for their properties in clearing heat, promoting body fluids, improving vision, and facilitating urination, making them highly beneficial to health.