National Escargot Day is celebrated to appreciate the unique delicacy of escargot, or snails. Escargot has been enjoyed as a delicacy since Roman times and is still popular today in many parts of the world.

The history of escargot is quite interesting as it is believed that snails were first eaten by Roman soldiers who were on the march and needed food. They found snails were an abundant and easy to catch food source. The snails were cooked in garlic and butter to give them a delicious flavor. The popularity of escargot spread, and it eventually became a delicacy.

The earliest published recipe for escargot can be traced back to the 18th century. The recipe first appeared in a book written by French cookbook author François Massialot and is titled “Cuisinier Royal et Bourgeois”. The recipe consists of snails cooked in butter, garlic, and parsley. The dish has evolved over the years, but the basic ingredients remain the same.

One of the most famous moments in history involving escargot was during the reign of King Louis XIV (somewhere between 1643 and 1715). It is said that he had a team of chefs prepare a giant escargot for a royal banquet. The escargot was reportedly so large that it had to be served on a cart. The dish was a huge success and was enjoyed by all the guests.

Escargot is not a widely consumed food in the United States, but it is popular in parts of Europe and other parts of the world. It is estimated that about 10 million pounds of snail meat is consumed in France each year. Additionally, it is estimated that only about 10 tons of escargot is consumed in the United States each year.

Fun facts

• The word escargot is French for “snail”
• Snails are usually cooked in garlic butter, parsley, and shallots.
• Escargot can be served in the shell or out of the shell.
• They can be served as an appetizer or as a main course.
• There is evidence that suggests snails have been consumed since prehistoric times.

Escargot Recipe

Ingredients

• 24 snails, cleaned and washed
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons shallots, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Place snails in a baking dish.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add garlic, parsley, and shallots and cook until fragrant.
4. Pour the butter mixture over the snails and sprinkle with black pepper.
5. Bake for 20 minutes.
6. Serve warm.

National Escargot Day is an opportunity to learn more about this unique delicacy and to appreciate its history. Snails may not be for everyone but we’d love to hear if they are for you.