(Post by Sean Lyman)
Apart from its exquisite flavor profile, seafood is a rich source of lean protein and nutrients that are usually low in our daily diets; these include vitamin B12, selenium, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
If you grew up along the coast, you’ll understand why so many cherish seafood, but the less fortunate must travel to the nearest coast to explore these delicacies.
So, for the ones who depend on different states or countries to get a dose of the ocean, here are our top recommendations for seafood dishes from around the globe.
Paella de Marisco from Valencia
Although paella comes in different varieties, the one with seafood paella is the most popular paella, not only in Valencia but across the Spanish coast. This dish is a summertime delicacy because of the fresh fish and seafood available during those months, and it is prepared over a wood fire to achieve that smoky aroma. Prepared with a traditional saffron rice base, paella de mariscos has a striking, colorful appearance with a flavorful combination of peppers, tomatoes, shrimp, fish, clams, and mussels.
Classic Lobster Rolls from Maine
SourceIf you’re visiting New England, lobster rolls must make it to your list of must-try dishes. It’s simply cooked lobster meat doused in butter and put into hot dog buns with some lettuce, lemon juice, pepper, and salt, while some variations include mayonnaise and celery. It sure looks like it can rack up your calories; however, the health benefits of lobster are many, and being a lean protein source is one of them. Traditionally, lobster rolls are served with potato wedges or French fries.
Laxsoppa from Stockholm
Prevalent in northern Europe, this creamy salmon soup has been part of Scandinavian culture for centuries. Known as Lohikeitto in Finland and Laxsoppa in Sweden, there are several variations, but some common ingredients include salmon fillet chunks, diced potatoes, carrots, cream, and buttery fish stock broth. The heartiness of this soup makes it the perfect winter dish when paired with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon.
Nigiri Sushi from Tokyo
Unlike regular rolled sushi, Nigirizushi is hand-pressed, a thin slice of meat pressed over sushi rice. Developed in the heart of Japan, nigiri was called Edo during the 1800s when they used nori seaweed to wrap the fish and rice to keep it together. Meat toppings vary, but the most popular options include tuna, eel, shrimp, haddock, and uni. It’s served with shiso leaves, soy sauce, wasabi, pickled ginger, and sometimes, toasted seaweed and daikon. Traditionally, it’s meant to be a one-bite dish eaten by hand.
Chtapodi Sti Schara from the Cyclades
SourceKnown as grilled octopus in English, this traditional dish embodies all the flavors of Greece, a combination of octopus, olive oil, oregano, and red wine vinegar. After washing and drying the octopus, it is grilled over a charcoal fire by consistently basting it with a marinade of vinegar, oil, and oregano. Once tender, the octopus is thinly sliced and served with a drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil, lemon, crusty bread, and white wine.
Moqueca Capixaba from Salvador
This seafood stew originates from the Espírito Santo region of Brazil, with the base consisting of fish, coriander, onion, garlic, tomatoes, and lime juice. Traditionally, it is cooked in a panela de barro, a clay pot, by layering the seafood with the rest of the ingredients and gradually simmering it in its juices. Some recipes include chili peppers served with a porridge called pirão or plain white rice to add a hint of heat.
Gang Som Crab Curry from Koh Mook
Crab bee hoon is a Singaporean dish consisting of rice vermicelli noodles called bee hoon noodles (rice vermicelli) and succulent Sri Lankan mud crab meat. It is drenched in a silky soup made of butter, chicken broth, evaporated milk, garlic, ginger, white pepper, fish sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce. For deglazing, locals traditionally use Chinese rice wine, but you can swap that for cognac or brandy. This dish includes leafy vegetables such as chye sim, baby bok choy, green onions, and cilantro leaves. Once ready, it’s served with a side of different chili-based dipping sauces.
Fish and Chips from Whitby
What could get more British than some good old fish and chips? For those who haven’t tried it, this dish is a national favorite made from fresh white fish across the United Kingdom. The fillets are cut into large slices, dipped in a batter made from flour, eggs, and milk, and fried in lard or oil. Typically, fish such as cod, flounder, and haddock are the best choice for this dish and are served with potato chips. Sides usually vary from region to region, including mushy peas, salt, vinegar, ketchup, or brown sauce.
Parting Thoughts
We’ve saved you a lot of time with these suggestions, so take a gastronomic dive into them as soon as you reach one of the above destinations. Your tastebuds will indeed thank you.
