Turtle Soup in LA: A Slimy Situation
So, you’re craving turtle soup. You’re either a very adventurous eater, a die-hard fan of classic cuisine, or you’ve just watched one too many old movies. Whatever the reason, let's dive into the murky waters of finding turtle soup in the City of Angels.
The Turtle-y Truth
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s address the elephant in the room: turtle soup is illegal to sell in the United States. Yep, you read that right. It’s a federal crime. So, if you’re hoping to find a cozy little French bistro serving up a steaming bowl of green sea turtle goodness, you’re out of luck.
But fear not, adventurous foodie! There’s always a way to satisfy a craving.
Mock Turtle Soup: A Chelonian Compromise
If you’re absolutely set on that turtle soup taste, your best bet is mock turtle soup. It’s a classic dish made with beef or veal, and it's a pretty decent imitation of the real thing. Think of it as the vegetarian version of sushi – it’s not the same, but it’s still pretty darn good.
Where to Find Mock Turtle Soup in LA
While it’s not as common as chicken noodle, you can still find mock turtle soup in LA if you know where to look. Here are a few places to start:
- Old-school diners: These places often have a menu full of classic comfort food, and mock turtle soup might just be on it.
- British pubs: British cuisine is known for its hearty soups, and mock turtle is a classic.
- High-end restaurants: Some fancy places might offer mock turtle as a special or a throwback dish.
DIY Turtle Soup: A Risky Endeavor
If you’re feeling particularly daring, you could try making your own mock turtle soup. There are plenty of recipes online, and it could be a fun culinary adventure. But remember, do not under any circumstances try to obtain or use real turtle meat. It's illegal, and it's harmful to the environment.
How to... Turtle Soup FAQs
- How to make mock turtle soup? - You can find numerous recipes online using beef or veal as a base.
- How to find a good mock turtle soup recipe? - Search online platforms like Allrecipes or YouTube for inspiration.
- How to distinguish between real and mock turtle soup? - Real turtle soup is illegal, so if you find it, it's likely mock.
- How to appreciate the history of turtle soup? - Research its culinary history and cultural significance.
- How to satisfy your soup craving without turtle? - Explore other hearty soup options like French onion or tomato bisque.
So, there you have it. While you can't indulge in the real deal, you can still enjoy the flavor of turtle soup through its mock counterpart. Happy slurping!
