Ingredients for 4 people:
- 2 sea swallows
- half onion
- a clove of garlic
- half a dried tomato
- 400 gr. of tomato puree
- half a glass of white wine
- a chili pepper
- extra virgin olive oil
- salt
- pepper
Preparation:
The Dactylopterus volitans, known as the sea swallow, is a marine fish of the Dactylopteridae family. Prized for its tasty, nutrient-rich meat, it lives in open marine waters and is ideal for recipes such as terns. This dish, part of the Mediterranean culinary tradition, enhances the flavors of the fish thanks to its ability to maintain consistency during cooking. However, its fishing is not common and finding it in fish shops is rare. If you have the opportunity, take the opportunity to prepare a delicious soup, perhaps seasoning the spaghetti with the sauce. The delicacy of its meat makes it a coveted ingredient for seafood enthusiasts, adding a touch of authenticity and flavor to Mediterranean gastronomy recipes.
Start by finely chopping the onion and, if you want a spicy touch, the chilli. Pour a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil into a high-sided pan and fry the onion, chopped dried tomato and chilli over medium heat. Only at the end add the garlic so it doesn’t burn.
In the meantime, carefully clean the terns and cut them into pieces. Add the pieces of fish to the mixture in the pan and brown them for a few minutes, until they are lightly golden.
Once the sea swallows are well browned, blend everything with half a glass of white wine and let the alcohol evaporate.
Add the tomato puree, season with salt and pepper to taste to obtain the right balance of flavours. Leave to cook over low heat for about 45 minutes, adding a little water to cover the fish and stirring occasionally. Turn off the heat when the soup has not reduced and thickened.
In the meantime, prepare the homemade bread croutons, cutting slices of bread and toasting them lightly.
Once ready, the sea swallow soup can be served. You can opt to present it as an appetizer or as a main course.
For a complete culinary experience, I recommend serving the sea swallow soup over toasted bread. As an accompaniment, a glass of quality white wine such as Vermentino from Sardinia or sparkling Garda from Veneto goes perfectly with the flavors of the sea.
This sea swallow soup recipe is a true hymn to Mediterranean flavors and a delicacy for those who love to explore authentic and traditional flavors of seafood cuisine.
Enjoy your meal!
