Horn Whistle Scallop (Còi Biên Mai)
Horn whistle scallops are bivalves of the shellfish family that live on the deep seafloor. With two shells that resemble an upside-down half-closed fan and two muscles, this triangular sea scallop is about the size of an adult’s hand. The whistle, also known as the cot, is a white, meaty, sweet, edible and most tasty muscle that joins two shell segments.
In Việt Nam it’s known as “Còi biên mai” or “Sò mai” and can be found in Phú Quốc and Cù Lao Chàm islands. It is a local delicacy that is widely valued by both locals and visitors. Scallops can be steamed, stir-fried, baked, or cooked in porridge, but the most popular way to prepare them is to grill them with salt and pepper and to make satay.