Émilie Staub, snail breeder in Pays de Clerval, reveals to us the secrets of her family breeding and her culinary preparations for the end of year celebrations.
Pays de Clerval: discovering the Montfort snails
A unique breeding under Montfort
In the heart of the Pays de Clerval region, a very particular breeding attracts the attention of locals and visitors: that of Montfort snails. Nestled at the foot of the Montfort mountain, this farm benefits from an ideal environment for these shellfish, which thrive under the beneficial shade of the mountain and benefit from the natural humidity. The farm, managed by Émilie Staub, is distinguished by its attention to quality and the production of high-quality snails.
Snail season: between collection and preparation for Christmas
During this winter season, the snails are in full preparation for the Christmas holidays. After careful collection and carefully controlled slaughter, they are ready to be transformed into various culinary preparations, such as Provencal, Comtoise stuffing or even Auvergne blue stuffing. If snails are a popular dish all year round, the Christmas period sees a peak in consumption, particularly for the aperitif where snails always find their place, even in summer temperatures.
A family profession and a passion passed down
Émilie Staub took over the family breeding two years ago, after her mother Christine started the adventure more than a decade ago. A journey in which she combines hard work and passion for this unusual activity. Outside of high season periods, Émilie manages the breeding alone, with occasional help from her husband. This activity requires great availability and regular actions to maintain the quality of production.
Montfort snailsit's a family story and know-how passed down from generation to generation. This atypical profession is also a great opportunity for Émilie, who introduces her breeding to the public through summer markets and Christmas markets. But it is also an opportunity to promote a local product with culinary specialties that delight the palate.
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