Have you ever tried periwinkle snails? If not, you're missing out on a hidden gem of the seafood world. Even if you are abroad, outside Nigeria where the authentic periwinkles can be found, you do not have any excuse as My Sasun African Market is one place where you can find the freshest and best Periwinkles in the US and Canada. These tiny, spiral-shelled creatures may not look like much, but they are packed with nutrients that can improve your health and well-being. In this article, I'll show you why periwinkle snails are more than just a snack, but a superfood that you should add to your diet.
Protein Powerhouse:
One of the best things about periwinkle snails is their high protein content. Protein is the building block of life, and it helps your body repair and grow muscles, organs, and tissues. It also supports your immune system, hormones, and enzymes. If you want to boost your protein intake, periwinkle snails are a great choice. They have about 18 grams of protein per 4-ounce serving, which is comparable to pork and beef, but with much less fat.
Iron for Energy and Vitality:
Many people suffer from iron deficiency, which can cause fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and anemia. Periwinkle snails can help you prevent or treat this condition, as they are a rich source of iron. Iron is a mineral that helps your body produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen to every cell in your body. It also helps your hair, nails, and skin stay healthy. Periwinkle snails have about 4.8 milligrams of iron per 4-ounce serving, which is 22% of your recommended daily allowance.
Also Read: THE IMPORTANCE OF IRON-RICH FOODS IN YOUR PREGNANCY DIET
Vitamin B12 for Nerve and Blood Health:
Vitamin B12 is another essential nutrient that periwinkle snails provide. Vitamin B12 is important for your nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. It also helps prevent certain types of anemia and neurological disorders. Periwinkle snails are a natural source of vitamin B12, which is especially beneficial for vegetarians and vegans who may not get enough of it from plant-based foods. Periwinkle snails have about 1.8 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 4-ounce serving, which is 75% of your recommended daily allowance.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Heart and Brain Health:
Omega-3 fatty acids are famous for their health benefits, especially for your heart and brain. Omega-3s can lower inflammation, improve blood flow, and protect your cells from damage. They can also enhance your mood, memory, and cognitive function. Periwinkle snails contain omega-3s, specifically EPA and DHA, which are the most effective and beneficial types of omega-3s. Periwinkle snails have about 0.6 grams of omega-3s per 4-ounce serving, which is more than the recommended daily intake for most people.
Caution: Source Matters:
Of course, not all periwinkle snails are created equal. The quality and safety of periwinkle snails depend on where they come from and how they are handled. Pollution and toxins can contaminate shellfish, making them harmful to eat. When buying periwinkle snails, make sure you choose reputable sources that follow strict quality and sustainability standards like we do at My Sasun African Store. You can also check the labels and certifications to ensure the periwinkle snails are safe and eco-friendly.
Here are some examples of Nigerian recipes that use periwinkle snails:
- Afang Soup: This is a vegetable soup made with afang leaves (also known as okazi or ukazi), waterleaf, palm oil, crayfish, stockfish, and periwinkle snails. It is a delicacy from the Efik and Ibibio people of southeastern Nigeria.
- Ofe Ukazi: This is another vegetable soup made with ukazi leaves, cocoyam, palm oil, smoked fish, meat, and periwinkle snails. It is a traditional dish from the Igbo people of eastern Nigeria.
- Ekpang Nkukwo: This is a porridge made with grated cocoyam and water yam, wrapped in cocoyam leaves and cooked in a rich sauce of palm oil, crayfish, dried fish, and periwinkle snails. It is a specialty of the Efik and Ibibio people of southeastern Nigeria.
Rounding Off:
As you can see, periwinkle snails are more than just a tasty treat, but a nutritional powerhouse that can boost your health and happiness. They are rich in protein, iron, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can benefit your muscles, blood, nerves, heart, and brain. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a great addition to any diet. Whether you enjoy them as a simple dish or a fancy appetizer, periwinkle snails are a delicacy that you should try. You'll be surprised by how delicious and satisfying they are. You can find different brands of fresh, frozen and dried periwinkles at My Sasun African Store. Come and visit us today at our stores at Celina, TX or Houston TX. You can also order for these healthy meats online. The main thing is for you to receive these goodies, cook them, relish them and then discover the amazing health benefits that comes with eating periwinkle snails.
