Friday, July 18, 2008

Unsuccess

No, my escargot experiment didn't quite go the way I wanted it to. I'm not sure what I did wrong, but it was an interesting experience. When I got ready to do the deed I washed them one last time quite thoroughly. They seemed to know what was coming. I then filled the bottom of their little ice cream container with about 1/2 an inch of vinegar and salt to purge their systems. That was kind of gross. Then I rinsed them again and boiled. Lots of foam so I drained, washed, and boiled again. Not as much foam. I washed again and de-shelled. That was the most fun part. It involves a toothpick and, despite what I've read online, is really not that hard. You know what's funny? The escargot come out in the shape of... well a snail. They're all curled up in about 3 twists. It looked like small cinnamon rolls. I then fried them in butter and garlic. That was fun and yummy smelling. Then I decided to make an escargot omelet, so out came the eggs and cheese.

In the end they didn't taste bad. They just didn't taste good. I'm baffled. Every time I've had escargot they always have a sharp taste, something that one will either love or hate. These didn't taste at all. After munching down 4 of them, I gave up. It's not worth it if they don't taste. So I just ate the egg and some baguette. It was still a good dinner but not quite what I was expecting. I have several theories. Tell me what you think:
  • They were too small - Not sure if this matter, but I've had some about this size in a French restaurant and they were exquisite.
  • I starved them too long - Everything said to starve them for a few days, but it was anywhere from 2 days to 8 days depending on where I looked. I decided to go high but I think I may have done it too long. Next time I'll starve them for 2-3 days and then feed them safe food, like carrots and onions.
  • I didn't cook them right - How hard can it be? Well, I left out the white wine (all the recipes called for it but I didn't have any), and I didn't have a garlic smasher. Maybe I shouldn't have boiled them twice. Who knows.
  • I just don't know how to do this - This is probably the best possibility, but everything worth while takes practice, eh?
You may be wondering where the pictures are. Sadly, there are no pictures. I was in a hurry tonight and didn't have time. But I promise next time I do escargot I'll keep a full photo journal.

Yes, there will be a next time. Why not?

4 comments:

Spiff said...

According to my sources the lack of the white wine probably contributed to the lack of taste. Also, they tell me that you are supposed to keep boiling and re-boiling them until there is no foam. Not a diminished amount, none. That can take a long time and can be very frustrating.

Edmund de Trois said...

Well, it's a start anyway. I'll try the white wine and re-boiling next time!

Holly B. said...

Found you!Just order them in a restaraunt. With a creamy, garlic sauce = magnifique !

Edmund de Trois said...

Hehee... That´s just not as fun as doing them homemade!