Balkan-style Escargot

Ingredients

In the Balkan-style Escargot, we adapt the original Portuguese recipe by incorporating Balkan spices and flavors. The traditional Portuguese dish is typically prepared with olive oil, garlic, and parsley, while the Balkan version introduces spices such as paprika, cumin, and thyme. This adaptation adds a unique twist to the dish, infusing it with the distinct flavors of Balkan cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Caracóis à Algarvia, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) escargot 500g (1.1 lb) escargot
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the escargot thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. Set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the escargot to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, and thyme over the escargot. Stir well to coat the escargot evenly with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the escargot is tender.
7. 7.
   Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Escargot — Ensure that the escargot is thoroughly cleaned before cooking to remove any grit or debris. Rinse them under cold water and gently scrub if necessary.

Tips & Tricks

• If you can't find fresh escargot, you can use canned escargot as a substitute. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before cooking.
• Serve the Balkan-style Escargot with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less paprika according to your preference.
• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the escargot before serving.
• If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serving advice

Serve the Balkan-style Escargot as an appetizer or main course. Accompany it with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Balkan-style Escargot in individual serving dishes, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The vibrant colors of the spices and herbs will add visual appeal to the dish.