With its fresh and versatile flavour, it is a gift from the ocean that has conquered tables around the globe. Every corner of the coastal world has developed its own tradition of seafood preparation, creating unique and delicious dishes that reflect the richness of local cultures and the freshness of marine ingredients. In this blog article we show you the world’s most commonly used seafood in international cuisine.
Seafood of the World
With its fresh and varied taste, it is a culinary delicacy appreciated all over the world. From the shores of the Mediterranean to the tropical waters of Southeast Asia, each region has developed its own tradition of seafood preparation. In this article, we will venture on a gastronomic journey to discover the most exquisite seafood and share recipes for popular seafood dishes from different regions. Get ready to explore the world of treasures.
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Mediterranean Seafood
We begin our gastronomic journey in the cradle of Mediterranean cuisine, where it is a fundamental part of the diet. The coastal regions of Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece are home to some of the tastiest varieties in the world.
- Seafood Paella (Spain): Paella is one of Spain’s most iconic dishes, and the seafood version is a delicious combination of rice, mussels, squid, prawns and saffron. Seafood paella is a dish that radiates flavour and colour, and is perfect for sharing at a festive meal.
- Fish and Seafood fritura (Andalusia, Spain): In the region of Andalusia, you can find fritura de pescado y marisco, where prawns, squid and white fish are dipped in a light batter and fried until crispy and golden brown. They are served with lemon and are a delight in every bite.
- Grilled Seafood (Italy): In Italy, simplicity and freshness are key. Grilled seafood, such as squid and prawns, are prepared with olive oil, garlic and parsley, and served with a side of pasta or rice.
Southeast Asian seafood
As we travel east, we come to Southeast Asia, where it is mixed with a variety of exotic flavours and spices.
- Shrimp Pad Thai (Thailand): Pad Thai is a classic Thai dish that combines rice noodles, shrimp, peanuts and aromatic herbs. The mix of sweet, salty and spicy in this dish is a unique sensory experience.
- Curried Crayfish (Malaysia): Crayfish are a delicacy in Malaysia, especially when cooked in a thick curry sauce. This spicy and flavoursome dish is a seafood lover’s delight.
- Tom Yum Soup (Thailand): Tom Yum soup is a combination of shrimp, mushrooms, herbs and spices. Its sweet and sour and spicy flavour makes it one of the most iconic soups in Thai cuisine.
North American Seafood
North America is also known for its variety, especially in the coastal regions.
- Alaskan crab (United States): Alaskan crab is famous for its sweet and tender meat. You can enjoy a steamed crab leg with melted butter or make a delicious crab cake.
- Maine lobster (United States and Canada): Maine lobster is a luxury in the world of seafood. It can be enjoyed steamed with butter or in sophisticated dishes such as lobster Thermidor.
- Crab Bisque (New England, United States): Crab bisque is a rich, creamy soup that combines crab meat with a thick broth and is often served with cornbread. It is a comforting dish in cold New England winters.
Seafood from South America
South America offers a rich variety that is the basis for delicious and unique dishes.
- Ceviche (Peru): Ceviche is one of Peru’s most emblematic dishes. It combines raw fish or seafood with lemon, red onion and chilli. The acidity of the lemon “cooks” the fish and gives it a refreshing taste.
- Moqueca de Camarones (Brazil): Moqueca is a seafood stew that combines shrimp, fish, palm oil and coconut milk. It is an explosion of tropical flavours.
- Pulpo a la Gallega (Galicia, Spain): Although found in Spain, Pulpo a la Gallega is a popular dish in coastal regions of South America, such as Galicia. It is cooked to perfection and served in thin slices with olive oil, paprika and salt.
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Seafood from Northern Europe
In the northern regions of Europe, it is combined with simple but delicious ingredients.
- Salmon Gravlax (Scandinavia): Gravlax is a Scandinavian dish consisting of raw salmon marinated in sugar, salt, dill and pepper. It is thinly sliced and served on rye bread.
- Herring in Mustard Sauce (Sweden): Herring in mustard sauce is a traditional Swedish dish. Herring fillets are marinated in a sweet and sour mustard sauce and served on rye toast.
- Kedgeree (UK): Kedgeree is a British dish that combines rice, smoked fish (traditionally mackerel or herring), hard-boiled eggs and spices. It is a delicious breakfast or brunch dish.
Seafood in Africa
In Africa, it is combined with local ingredients and spices to create unique dishes.
- Fish Tagine (Morocco): Moroccan tagines are dishes simmered in clay pots. Fish tagine combines fish, olives, preserved lemon and Moroccan spices to create a tasty and fragrant dish.
- Fish Bobotie (South Africa): Bobotie is a South African dish that combines fish with a mixture of egg and milk, and is baked to a crispy golden brown.
Seafood in East Asia
In East Asia, it is the basis of many delicious dishes.
- Sushi (Japan): Sushi is an iconic Japanese dish that combines vinegar-seasoned rice with raw fish, seafood, or vegetables. It is presented in various forms such as nigiri, maki, or sashimi.
- Dim Sum (China): Dim sum is a wide variety of small Chinese dishes that often include dumplings filled with shrimp, squid, or crab, among other ingredients.
- Seafood Bibimbap (Korea): Bibimbap is a Korean dish that combines rice, vegetables, seafood, and egg. It is served with a spicy chili sauce and is mixed before eating.
Conclusion
Seafood is a global culinary treasure that adapts to a wide range of flavors and cooking styles. Whether in a succulent Spanish paella, a spicy Malaysian curry, or a refreshing Peruvian ceviche, it offers a diversity of culinary experiences that reflect the richness of gastronomic traditions from around the world.
In your next culinary adventure, don’t hesitate to explore the treasures of the sea in different cuisines. Discover how seafood is prepared and enjoyed worldwide and expand your palate with these delicious creations! And if you’re seeking more culinary knowledge, visit our mentta blog to learn a little more every day.