African Periwinkle: A Taste of West African Tradition

Anyone who lives in a country different from where they grew up has that one food, snack, or drink, that they associate with the country or region they grew up, that they no longer have access to eating or drinking on a daily basis.

For me, there are many that come to mind like Starch and Banga Soup, Ube, fresh Cashew fruit, Guava, and periwinkle.

When I lived in Nigeria, it was easy to buy periwinkle and add it to my soups and other dishes. I wouldn’t say I took it for granted how available it was but in many ways, I did.

What is the African Periwinkle?

Periwinkle, also known as the West African mud creeper is a small, edible gastropod found in the brackish waters and mangroves of West Africa.

The scientific name for it is Tympanotonus fuscatus.

It is a popular ingredient in traditional dishes in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon.

This species is a small snail with a thick, coiled shell and dark coloration, adapted to thrive in the muddy, tidal environments of coastal regions.

In Nigeria, it is called Isam by the Efik/Ibibio people, Isawuru by Yoruba People, Mgbi by Bayelsa People, Ngongo in Calabar, Mfi by Akwa Ibom people, and Ngoloo by the Igbo people.

The snail is harvested from tidal flats and mangroves, either by hand or with small nets.

How is African Periwinkle Used?

African periwinkle is commonly added to soups, stews, and sauces.

Dishes like Edikang Ikong, Afang soup, and Banga soup frequently feature these snails for their chewy texture and slightly briny flavor.

They are usually boiled and sometimes removed from their shells before use in recipes.

How Do You Remove African Periwinkle From Its Shell?

To remove African periwinkle from its shell, you can use a small pin or toothpick.

There is also a particular tiny hook that can be used for removing the snail from the shell.

My recommendation is to first boil hot water. Soak the periwinkle in the hot water for a few minutes. Soaking it loosens the snail from the shell. Then break the tail of each one and use the hook or toothpick to remove the snail from the top.

Nutritional Benefits

The West African mud creeper is not just a delicacy but also a nutrient-rich food.

It contains high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, and phosphorus.

Additionally, it is low in fat, making it a healthy and lean protein option.

Cultural and Medicinal Uses

In many coastal communities, the periwinkle plays a role in traditional medicine. Some people believe that it improves general health and vitality.

Can African Periwinkle Be Grown Indoors or in Shaded Areas?

Yes, African periwinkle can be farmed in controlled environments, including shaded areas.

However, it thrives best in conditions that mimic its natural habitat, such as brackish water and muddy mangroves.

Proper aquaculture setups can support indoor cultivation.

Can It Survive Winter?

No, African periwinkle is not naturally adapted to cold climates or winter conditions.

It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions with warm temperatures.

If kept in colder environments, it would require a controlled, warm aquaculture system to survive.

Does African Periwinkle Live In Freshwater?

African periwinkle primarily inhabits brackish water, which is a mix of fresh and saltwater found in mangroves and estuaries.

It cannot thrive in purely freshwater environments due to its need for slightly saline conditions.

What Color Is the African Periwinkle?

The African periwinkle typically has a dark-colored, coiled shell.

The coloration ranges from black to dark brown, with some lighter patches or streaks depending on the individual and its habitat.

The snail on the inside is usually greenish in color with touches of white and yellow.

What Can I Use Instead of African Periwinkle?

If African periwinkle is unavailable, other small shellfish like mussels, cockles, or clams can serve as substitutes, though their flavor and texture may differ slightly.

Personally, if I don’t have periwinkles, I use giant African land snails (Lissachatina fulica). While they are larger in size, there is just something about the way they taste that makes them a good substitute in my cooking. In the past when I would make my traditional soups, I would mix these two snails together.

Have you tried African Periwinkle in your cooking? What’s your favorite dish featuring these snails? Would you consider including them in your meals for their nutritional benefits?