Pen Shell - Nutritional Value and Cooking Methods

1.1. What are Pen Shell?

Pen shells are a rare type of seafood known for their distinctive flavor and high nutritional value. They are bivalve mollusks belonging to the clam family, with a hard shell and sweet, protein-rich meat. Pen shells are often used in various delicious dishes, from grilling and stir-frying to steaming. The name "pen shell" may derive from the shape of their shells, resembling a piece of skirt or long dress (mai). This shellfish is popular not only in Vietnamese cuisine but also in many other countries.

Pen Shell

1.2. Identification and Habitat

Pen shells have hard shells, typically dark brown or light green, with clear striations. Their shells are somewhat round, irregular, and significantly larger than those of other clams. Pen shell meat is ivory white, soft, and naturally sweet. Their habitat is mainly warm coastal areas with sandy or muddy bottoms. They usually live at depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters underwater, in clean seawater with abundant natural food like algae and small organisms.

In Vietnam, pen shells are widely distributed along the coasts from North to South, especially in central provinces like Khanh Hoa, Binh Thuan, and Da Nang. Harvesting and collecting pen shells typically occur in spring and summer when they grow robustly and reach their maximum size. Coastal inhabitants often use traditional methods such as nets and traps to harvest pen shells, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

1.3. Nutritional Value

Pen shells are not only delicious but also highly nutritious, beneficial for health. Pen shell meat is high in protein, low in fat, and rich in essential minerals like iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. The protein in pen shells is high-quality, easily digestible, and helps the body recover quickly after physical activities.

Additionally, pen shells contain numerous vitamins such as vitamin A, B12, and D. Vitamin A helps improve vision and boost the immune system, while vitamin B12 is crucial for red blood cell formation and maintaining a healthy nervous system. Vitamin D in pen shells enhances calcium absorption, contributing to strong bones.

Pen shells are also a source of omega-3, an unsaturated fatty acid beneficial for heart health. Omega-3 helps reduce bad cholesterol, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and improve brain function. Moreover, the antioxidants in pen shells help prevent aging and protect cells from harmful environmental effects.

With outstanding nutritional value, pen shells are not only a tasty dish but also a great food choice for health-conscious individuals. Regularly enjoying pen shells can improve overall health, boost the immune system, and offer numerous long-term benefits.

2. Delicious Pen Shell Dishes

2.1. Grilled with Scallion Oil

Pen Shell Grilled with Scallion Oil

2.1.1. Ingredients

Pen shells: 1 kg
Scallions: 100g
Pork fat: 50g
Shallots: 50g
Roasted peanuts: 50g
Seasonings: salt, sugar, pepper, fish sauce

2.1.2. Preparation

Clean, shell, and drain the pen shells.
Prepare scallion oil: Wash and chop scallions. Peel and thinly slice shallots. Clean and chop pork fat.
Make scallion oil: Melt pork fat in a pan until fragrant, then add scallions and a pinch of salt and sugar. Stir until scallions are just cooked.
Grill: Arrange pen shells on a grill, add scallion oil and roasted peanuts on top. Grill over charcoal until the meat is cooked and aromatic.

2.2. Stir-fried with Garlic

Pen Shell Stir-fried with Garlic

2.2.1. Ingredients

Pen shells: 1 kg
Garlic: 100g
Onion: 1
Cilantro: 50g
Seasonings: salt, sugar, pepper, fish sauce

2.2.2. Preparation

Clean, shell, and drain the pen shells.
Prepare ingredients: Peel and mince garlic. Peel and thinly slice onion. Wash and chop cilantro.
Stir-fry: Heat oil in a pan. Add garlic and fry until fragrant, then add pen shell meat and onion. Season with salt, sugar, pepper, and fish sauce to taste. Stir-fry until just cooked.
Finish: Sprinkle cilantro on top and stir well. Turn off the heat and serve.

2.3. Steamed with Lemongrass

Pen Shell Steamed with Lemongrass

2.3.1. Ingredients

Pen shells: 1 kg
Lemongrass: 200g
Ginger: 50g
Lime leaves: 10 leaves
Seasonings: salt, pepper, fish sauce, chili

2.3.2. Preparation

Clean and drain the pen shells.
Prepare ingredients: Clean and bruise lemongrass, cut into sections. Peel and thinly slice ginger. Wash and chop lime leaves.
Steam: Layer lemongrass and ginger in a steamer, place pen shells on top. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Steam for about 15-20 minutes until cooked and aromatic.
Finish: Add lime leaves and sliced chili on top. Serve with sweet and sour fish sauce.

3. Best Places to Enjoy Pen Shell in Da Nang

3.1. TinTin Seafood & Spa

3.1.1. Signature Dishes at TinTin

TinTin Seafood & Spa is an ideal place to enjoy seafood in Da Nang. Here, you can savor many delicious dishes like pen shells grilled with scallion oil. Each dish is meticulously prepared, preserving the distinctive flavor and providing a wonderful culinary experience.

Pen Shell at TinTin Seafood spa

4. Health Benefits

4.1. High-Quality Protein Supplement

Pen shells are a source of high-quality protein, aiding in muscle building and recovery. The protein is easily digestible and suitable for all ages.

4.2. Enhances Heart Health

Rich in omega-3, an unsaturated fatty acid beneficial for heart health. Omega-3 helps reduce bad cholesterol, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and improve brain function.

4.3. Supports Immune System

With high levels of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, B12, zinc, iron, and magnesium, pen shells help boost the immune system, protect against infections, and improve overall health.

5. Promotions at TinTin Seafood & Spa

5.1. 30% Discount on Spa Services

TinTin Seafood & Spa currently offers a special promotion, with a 30% discount on all spa services. This is a great opportunity to enjoy delicious pen shell dishes while relaxing with quality spa services.

spa discount