The moon snail—locally called ốc cừ or ốc mặt trăng—is one of Phu Quy Island’s rising seafood stars. Harvested daily by local divers, this unique shellfish has quickly earned a place among the island’s must-try specialties, alongside the famous moon crab.
Why is it called the “moon snail”?
The snail has a round, thick operculum that looks like a shimmering mother-of-pearl button. When turned upward, it resembles a bright full moon, which inspired its local name. Some visitors even call it the “knocking snail” because they must tap the shell a few times for the meat to slide out.
From humble seafood to high-demand delicacy
Just a few years ago, one kilogram of moon snail could barely be traded for a kilogram of rice. Today, demand has skyrocketed as travelers flock to Phu Quy—and the snail has made its way onto the menus of high-end restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Nai, Binh Duong, and beyond.
Its popularity is easy to understand: moon snail meat is sweet, crunchy, and fragrant, similar to the premium sea snail ốc hương, making it suitable for many mouthwatering dishes.
Before cooking, the snails are soaked in salt water with ginger and chili to release all sand and impurities, then washed thoroughly for a clean, ocean-fresh flavor.
Popular Ways to Enjoy Moon Snail
Boiled Moon Snail – Simple, Pure, Delicious
The simplest and most traditional method is boiling.
Snails are placed in a pot with enough water to cover them, then flavored with lemongrass, ginger, and crushed chili.
Once cooked, the snails release a mild herbal aroma. The dish pairs perfectly with a dipping sauce of ginger fish sauce, which enhances the natural sweetness of the meat with a bold, spicy kick.
Grilled with Butter – Rich, Fragrant, Addictively Good
For a richer flavor, moon snails can be grilled with butter.
After washing, the snails are placed on a grill. When they are just barely cooked, a small spoon of butter is added into each shell. The heat melts the butter, infusing the meat with a silky aroma.
The result: crispy yet tender meat with a buttery, smoky fragrance, best enjoyed with lime salt and pepper. It’s a signature Phu Quy flavor you won’t forget.
Stir-fried with Chili Salt – Spicy and Highly Addictive
If you love heat, this is the dish for you.
Lightly boiled snails are stir-fried with chili salt, ground chili, and spices, coating the shells in a beautiful golden-red layer.
The flavor is irresistible—salty, spicy, crunchy, and so satisfying you’ll keep reaching for more.
A Highlight of Phu Quy’s Seafood Culture
Whether you enjoy them boiled, grilled, or stir-fried, moon snails offer an unforgettable culinary experience—crispy, naturally sweet, and full of the island’s oceanic charm.
If you travel to Phu Quy, don’t miss the chance to try this beloved local specialty. It’s a dish that truly captures the flavor of the sea and the hospitality of the island’s people.
