How to Make Vietnamese Spicy Snails (Oc Len Xao Dua)

Vietnamese street food offers a symphony of flavors and textures, and among the most beloved dishes is Oc Len Xao Dua – spicy snails stir-fried with coconut milk. Want to experience the vibrant energy of a Vietnamese street food stall right in your own kitchen? This guide will walk you through crafting this authentic dish, and show you how to enjoy it just like they do in the bustling streets of Vietnam, an experience mirrored in the heart of London at Com Com Restaurant.

The Story of Oc Len Xao Dua at Com Com Restaurant

At Com Com Restaurant, we’re passionate about bringing the authentic flavors of Vietnam to your table. Oc Len Xao Dua holds a special place in Vietnamese cuisine, representing the resourcefulness and culinary creativity of its people. Traditionally, these freshwater snails are found in rice paddies and are a sustainable food source. The dish embodies the balance of sweet, spicy, and savory that defines much of Vietnamese cooking, a balance we meticulously recreate at Com Com Restaurant. Our chefs use only the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques, ensuring every bite transports you to the vibrant streets of Hanoi or Saigon.

Spicy Snails Ingredients at Com Com Restaurant

Gathering Your Ingredients: A Trip to the Vietnamese Market (or Your Local Supermarket!)

The magic of Oc Len Xao Dua begins with the freshest ingredients. While a trip to a Vietnamese market would be ideal, you can find most of these items in a well-stocked supermarket. At Com Com Restaurant, we source our ingredients with the same care and attention to detail, ensuring the most authentic flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Freshwater snails (Oc Len): These are the stars of the show! If unavailable, other snail varieties can be substituted, but the flavor will differ slightly.
• Coconut milk: The creamy, rich base of the sauce.
• Lemongrass: Provides a citrusy and aromatic note.
• Chilies: For the essential heat – adjust to your preference. At Com Com Restaurant, we offer varying spice levels to cater to every palate.
• Garlic, ginger, shallots: The aromatic trinity of Vietnamese cuisine.
• Fish sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth.
• Sugar: Balances the spice and savory elements.
• Fresh herbs (e.g., Vietnamese mint, cilantro): For a refreshing garnish and burst of flavor.

Cooking Oc Len Xao Dua: A Step-by-Step Guide to Culinary Bliss

Preparing Oc Len Xao Dua is a rewarding experience. Follow these steps and you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time:

1. Prepare the snails: Soak the snails in water with sliced chilies for at least 30 minutes to purge them. Rinse thoroughly.
2. Create the aromatic base: Finely chop the lemongrass, chilies, garlic, ginger, and shallots.
3. Stir-fry the aromatics: Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add the aromatics and stir-fry until fragrant.
4. Add the snails: Add the snails to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes.
5. Introduce the coconut milk: Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Season: Add fish sauce and sugar to taste. Adjust the spice level with more chilies if desired.
7. Simmer: Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, coating the snails beautifully.
8. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Cooking Oc Len Xao Dua at Com Com Restaurant

Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own

• Spice it up: For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a finely chopped bird’s eye chili. At Com Com Restaurant, we offer a range of chili sauces to customize your spice level.
• Add vegetables: Include diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with other Southeast Asian herbs like Thai basil or sawtooth coriander.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute tofu or mushrooms for the snails to create a delicious vegetarian version. We offer a delectable Dau Phu Xao Ca Tim (Stir-fried Tofu with Aubergine) at Com Com Restaurant, which captures similar flavors.

Nutritional Benefits: A Healthy and Flavorful Choice

Oc Len Xao Dua is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits. Snails are a good source of protein and iron, while coconut milk provides healthy fats and essential vitamins. The fresh herbs add vitamins and antioxidants.

Plated Oc Len Xao Dua at Com Com Restaurant

Pairing and Enjoying: The Vietnamese Way

Oc Len Xao Dua is traditionally enjoyed with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. It also pairs well with steamed rice or vermicelli noodles. At Com Com Restaurant, we recommend pairing this dish with a refreshing Bia Hanoi or a glass of iced Vietnamese coffee.

FAQs

Q: Where can I find freshwater snails?

A: Freshwater snails can be found at Asian grocery stores or some specialty seafood markets.

Q: Can I substitute other snail varieties?

A: Yes, you can substitute other snail varieties, but the flavor will differ slightly.

Q: How can I adjust the spice level?

A: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies during cooking.

Q: What can I substitute for snails in a vegetarian version?

A: Tofu or mushrooms make excellent substitutes for snails in a vegetarian version.

Q: What can I serve with Oc Len Xao Dua?

A: Crusty bread, steamed rice, or vermicelli noodles are all great accompaniments.

Q: What drinks pair well with Oc Len Xao Dua?

A: Bia Hanoi, iced Vietnamese coffee, or a refreshing herbal tea are all good choices.

A Taste of Vietnam at Com Com Restaurant

From the bustling streets of Vietnam to the heart of London, the vibrant flavors of Oc Len Xao Dua await you. Come experience the authentic taste and warm hospitality at Com Com Restaurant. We’re located at 183-185 Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 4LB, UK. Our opening hours are 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM, every day. You can also enjoy our delivery service and have the taste of Vietnam delivered straight to your door. Give us a call at 020 7720 9928 or email us at [email protected]. We can’t wait to share the magic of Vietnamese street food with you. Come and discover the delicious world of Oc Len Xao Dua!