If you are interested in conch diving in the Cayman Islands, find out about conch season and what to do with conch meat after you catch it.
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About Conch
Conch (pronounced “conk”), is an edible marine snail that is native to the coasts of the Caribbean islands, the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and Bermuda, and have been a staple of Caribbean cuisine for centuries.
Shellfish-lovers can help themselves to five queen conchs per person per day or 10 per boat, whichever is less, from Cayman waters between November 1 and April 30 of every year. Conch can only be taken from areas that are not in designated marine protected areas, including Wildlife Interaction Zones.
Cracking a Conch
The conch shell is one single piece, which presents something of a challenge when removing the shell from around the snail. Wear rubber gloves and goggles while shelling the conch because the shell will be sharp.
You could soak the shell in salt water for several hours and then attempt to pull out the snail. Or, you could break the suction of the snail to its shell by drilling a tiny hole into the middle of the shell’s upper spire. Once you break the suction, you can pull the snail out. Once out of the large shell, pull off a second shell-like covering with your hand.
You may even get lucky and discover a rare conch pearl! Conch pearls are generally about 3mm in diameter and have an oval or baroque shape. They range from white to golden yellow to coffee brown and are measured in carats like diamonds. Pink conch pearls are the most desirable.
Cooking a Conch
Once removed from the shell, the conch can be cooked in many ways, but most recipes will instruct you to tenderize the conch meat first by pounding it gently with a heavy mallet since it can be quite rubbery. The meat can then be steamed, breaded and fried, or sautéed.
Conch have a mild, sweet clam-like flavor, and the white meat can be eaten raw or used as an ingredient in chowder, stew, ceviche salad, spicy fritters, and other popular dishes.
You will find conch in restaurants around Grand Cayman, such as the Cracked Conch in West Bay. Read Cayman Good Taste for more ideas.
Jacques Scott Wines & Spirits can provide you with more information about conch season in the Cayman Islands as well as all the beverages you need at great prices! Visit one of our liquor stores or order online for free delivery and maximum convenience.
