Putian-style Garlic Snails

Ingredients

In the original Maltese dish, Bebbux bl-aljoli, the snails are typically cooked in a garlic and parsley sauce. However, in this Putian-style adaptation, we elevate the flavors by incorporating additional spices and ingredients commonly found in Putian cuisine. The snails are cooked in a rich garlic sauce that is more aromatic and pungent, giving the dish a distinct Putian flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Bebbux bl-aljoli, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) snails 500g (1.1 lb) snails
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Clean the snails thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris. Rinse them under cold water.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the snails and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the snails to the wok and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, white pepper, five-spice powder, and chili flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the snails and stir-fry for another 2 minutes, ensuring the snails are evenly coated.
6. 6.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Snails — Ensure that the snails are thoroughly cleaned before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
• Garlic — Mince the garlic finely to release its full flavor in the dish.
• Shaoxing wine — If Shaoxing wine is not available, you can substitute it with dry sherry.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chili peppers.
• Serve the Putian-style Garlic Snails with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic sauce.
• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the snails before serving.
• If you can't find fresh snails, you can use canned snails as a substitute.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences by adding more soy sauce or oyster sauce if desired.

Serving advice

Serve the Putian-style Garlic Snails as an appetizer or as part of a seafood feast. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the snails on a serving platter, drizzling the garlic sauce over them. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for an attractive presentation.