Whelk Stir Fry with Garlic & Soy

Sliced wild whelk quickly stir-fried with ginger, garlic, spring onions, and sesame. A bold, chewy bite.

Prep: 15 mins

Cook: 10 mins

Serves 2

Easy

Ingredients

1
Clean the whelks thoroughly. If using fresh whelks, simmer in salted water for 3-4 minutes, then drain. Slice into bite-sized pieces.
2
Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and sugar in a small bowl. Set aside.
3
Heat a wok or large pan over high heat until smoking. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
4
Add ginger and garlic. Stir-fry for 10 seconds until fragrant.
5
Add the whelk slices and spread in a single layer. Let them sear for 30 seconds without stirring, then toss.
6
Add the chilli (if using) and white parts of the spring onions. Stir-fry for another minute.
7
Pour in the sauce mixture. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the sauce coats the whelks and reduces slightly.
8
Add the green parts of the spring onions and toss briefly.
9
Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

💡Don't overcook whelks or they become rubbery. Quick, high heat is the key.
💡Freezing whelks overnight before cooking helps tenderise them.
💡Have all ingredients prepped and within reach before you start - stir-frying is fast!