7 fish dishes you must try
Catalan gastronomy is a treasure trove of flavors where sea and mountain cuisine coexist in perfect harmony. Although mountain stews and meat dishes are very well known, fish cuisine has a place of honor on Catalan tables, reflecting its deep connection with the Mediterranean coast. These seven dishes are a journey through the waters of Catalonia, from the Costa Brava to the Ebro Delta, and you can’t leave without tasting them.
1. Suquet de Peix
The Suquet de Peix is the soul of seafood cuisine. A humble dish, born on fishermen’s boats, who used the fish that was not sold to make a stew. This delicacy is prepared with a base of sofrito and a chop of nuts (often almonds and hazelnuts), which binds the intense taste of the fish (such as monkfish, grouper or verat) with potatoes and a concentrated fumet. It is a dish that will make you touch the sky with your fingers and that almost cries out for a good slice of bread to dip it in.
2. Arròs a Banda
Although Arròs a Banda is a Valencian classic, exquisite versions are made in Catalonia, especially in the Costa Daurada and Ebro Delta areas. The key is in the fish fumet, which must be powerful and tasty, made with rock fish. The rice is cooked on the side, absorbing all the flavor of the sea, and is served with seafood and, often, a good aioli.
3. Fideuà
Similar to rice, Fideuà replaces grains with noodles, a simple but brilliant combination. This dish is a festival of marine flavors, where noodles browned in a paella are cooked with seafood (shrimp, king prawns, cuttlefish) and a rich stir-fry. The result is a dish with an irresistible texture, with the noodles crispy on the bottom and full of the taste of the sea on the surface.
4. Esqueixada de Bacallà
For hot days, there is nothing better than a Esqueixada de Bacallà. This refreshing salad is prepared with strips of squeixat cod (hence the name), tomato, onion, pepper and black olives, all dressed with a good drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It is a dish of contrasts, with the saltiness of the cod that blends perfectly with the freshness of the vegetables.
5. Bacallà a la Llauna
Bacallà a la Llauna is a recipe that dates back to traditional Catalan cuisine. The fish, usually a cod loin, is cooked in the oven or in a metal tray (“tin”) with a stir-fry of tomato, garlic, pepper and a little chilli. The right cooking point and the concentrated stir-fry make this dish a true tribute to simplicity and flavour.
6. Sardines a la Brasa
You don’t have to complicate your life to enjoy good fish. In the summer, in any coastal town, you will find sardines a la brasa or on the grill. Simply with salt and a good oil, the fire does its magic, leaving the skin crispy and the meat tender and full of flavor. They are a staple that will connect you directly with the essence of life by the sea.
7. Mar i Muntanya
Finally, we cannot forget the icon of Catalan cuisine: Mar i Muntanya. This dish, which combines ingredients from the sea and the land in a single casserole, has many variations. The most famous is chicken with lobster or shrimp, or cuttlefish with meatballs. This surprising combination is a demonstration of the creative genius of Catalan cuisine and the richness of its land.
These dishes are just a small sample of the great variety of Catalan fish cuisine. Which of these makes you most want to try?
Marinated Cod Recipe: A Journey to the Heart of Flavor
Marinated Cod Recipe: A Journey to the Heart of Flavor
Cod, one of the most revered fish in our gastronomy, lends itself to an endless number of preparations. However, one of the most fascinating and, perhaps, lesser-known is marinated cod. This ancient technique not only preserves the fish but also transforms its texture and enhances its flavor with an unparalleled subtlety and freshness. This article will guide you step by step to discover the secrets of this recipe, a perfect option for an elegant starter or a light main course.
The Art of Marinating
Marinating is not just about submerging food in a liquid; it’s an alchemy. In the case of cod, the marinating process in a mixture of citrus and herbs breaks down the fish fibers, “cooking” it without the need for heat. The result is a tender, translucent flesh full of nuances. For this recipe, we will use a classic and infallible combination that balances acidity, a salty touch, and fresh aromas.
Ingredients: The Treasure of the Sea and Land
- Desalted cod: 1 kg of good quality cod loins. It is crucial that it is well desalted and boneless. If you buy it salted, you will have to soak it for at least 48 hours, changing the water every 6-8 hours. If you buy it already desalted, make sure it is of superior quality.
- Citrus: the juice of 2 lemons and 1 orange. The balance between the acidity of the lemon and the sweetness of the orange is key.
- Aromatics: 1 small spring onion, 1 bunch of fresh parsley, and if you want a more personal touch, 1 small fresh chili (optional).
- Extra virgin olive oil: 100 ml, of the best quality possible. It will provide body and a fruity flavor that will tie all the ingredients together.
- Salt and black pepper: to taste.
- For serving: lettuce leaves, tomato, or other vegetables to your liking.
Preparation: The Dance of Flavor
- Prepare the cod: Once the cod is well desalted, dry it with paper towels and cut it into thin slices or small cubes, as if it were a carpaccio or a tartare. Place the pieces in a glass or ceramic container, never metal, as it could react with the citrus.
- Marinate the fish: Finely chop the spring onion and parsley. If you are using chili, remove the seeds and chop it very finely. Add all these ingredients to the cod container. Next, pour in the lemon and orange juice. Make sure the cod is well submerged in the liquid.
- Resting time: Cover the container and let it rest in the refrigerator. The marinating time will depend on the desired texture. With 2 hours, the cod will begin to “cook” and become more translucent. If you leave it for 4 hours, the texture will be firmer, similar to that of a cooked fish. Do not leave it for more than 6 hours, as it could become too acidic.
- Emulsify and serve: After the resting time, drain the excess liquid from the marinade. This is important, as the acidity is already in the fish. Now, add the extra virgin olive oil, a little salt, and black pepper. Mix it carefully so that the oil emulsifies with the residual juices of the fish and the marinade.
Tips for a Memorable Presentation
This marinated cod is an elegant dish that deserves a presentation to match. You can serve it on a bed of green leaves, with a few tomato slices or alongside a smooth potato cream. A touch of grated lemon or orange zest on top, just before serving, can further enhance its freshness.
Marinated cod is an invitation to enjoy subtlety and delicacy. It is a dish that connects you with tradition and, at the same time, allows you to explore new horizons of flavor. Do not hesitate to try it, and you will discover a new and fascinating way to enjoy this fish that is so much a part of our heritage.
Your restaurant near Torroella de Montgrí
A charming and intimate Mediterranean corner in Gualta
At Tritón, we are a restaurant that prides itself on providing its guests with a unique culinary experience, based on tradition and the authentic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Located in Gualta, very close to Torroella de Montgrí, our space combines a passion for good food with a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for both romantic getaways and special celebrations.
We like to think of Tritón as a place where intimacy meets comfort, and where every detail is designed to make your visit an unforgettable experience.
Mediterranean Cuisine: Tradition, Flavor, and Proximity
At Tritón, we believe that Mediterranean cuisine is much more than a gastronomic choice: it is a way of life and sharing. Our menu, created with passion and respect for tradition, stands out for its fresh, local, and seasonal produce. Each dish is a tribute to the flavors of the sea and the land.
From fresh fish delivered straight from the stage to delicately cooked meats, colorful appetizers, and vibrant salads, each bite is a journey to the aromas and flavors of our Mediterranean surroundings.
Restaurant with a daily menu in Torroella de Montgrí
If you’re passing through the area and looking for a good restaurant with a daily menu in Torroella de Montgrí, our menu will surprise you. We offer a wide and varied menu, with options for all tastes and a lunch menu that changes frequently depending on the market. We also have ample private parking with easy access from the road, to make your visit even more convenient.
Celebrate your special moments with us
At Tritón, we are delighted to welcome groups and organize all kinds of celebrations. If you are looking for restaurants for baptisms, communions, or family meals in Torroella de Montgrí, our spacious and bright dining room is the ideal space. We are also a great option for business dinners, get-togethers with friends, or birthdays.
We take care of everything because all you care about is enjoying the moment: from the personalized menu to the set-up of the space.
A family restaurant with a Mediterranean spirit
You will find us on the Carretera de Palafrugell in Torroella, s/n, 17257 Gualta, in a quiet and pleasant setting. If you’d like to make a reservation or have any questions, just call 972 757 038.
Come and discover why Tritón is a restaurant beloved by all: excellent cuisine, a family atmosphere, and quality products in the heart of the Empordà region.
We look forward to seeing you!
