Snail Caviar

Snail caviar is a delicacy that is not yet produced in Britain. But I plan to change that. There was an article in the news earlier this year suggesting that the British market was ready for this innovation and that's what I'm investigating now:

'It has taken France and Spain by storm and now suppliers are desperate to turn it into a hit with Britons. Snails eggs could soon be lining the shelves in the UK as chefs throughout Europe rediscover the delicacy, known as 'white caviar'. Already stocked in tiny cans by Harrods, the tiny pearl-like eggs have been used in banquets for wealthy Romans, Egyptians and Greeks for centuries. They are also known as 'pearls of Aphrodite' for their aphrodisiac qualities and are best marinated in herbs.

Labour of love: It takes four hours to fill a 50g tin with each egg hand-selected using tweezers. Now farmers are trying to cash in on the new craze by cultivating the molluscs, a kilo (2lb 3oz) of which can sell for up to £1,600 (1,800 euros). The high cost of the eggs, which are still cheaper than the finest beluga caviar at 4,000 euros a kilo ... makes it a risky investment.' (extract from Daily Mail Feb 2011)

Have you ever tasted snail caviar? I have and I was very impressed. The pearly white spheres burst on your tongue releasing a mushromy aroma.

I'd like to know if there are chefs, caterers and enthusiastic home cooks out there who would like to buy locally produced snail caviar. Let me know: info@snailfarm.org.uk or post a comment.