Marmitako is a Basque fish stew traditionally prepared by fishermen on the Bay of Biscay, containing potatoes, tomatoes, green pepper, and spices, with freshly caught tuna or sometimes salmon. It is a thick stew served as a main course and can be enjoyed with bread or salad.
Marmitako, meaning ‘from the pot’, is a type of Basque fish stew that first became popular on fishing vessels off the coasts of Spain and France. This dish is normally prepared in a large kettle or Dutch oven. It typically contains potatoes, tomatoes, green pepper, and spices. Freshly caught tuna is normally added, although salmon may sometimes be substituted.
This Basque cuisine was traditionally prepared by fishermen on the Bay of Biscay, an area that stretches from western France to northern Spain. The fishermen here needed an easy-to-prepare dish that was also nutritious and filling. Sometimes they use part of their catch to prepare meals, which is why marmitako traditionally contains tuna.
Sometimes salmon can be substituted for tuna in marmitako. Freshly caught fish is normally used instead of canned or frozen meat. For this reason, it is a popular dish in many hotels and restaurants along the Bay of Biscay.
This dish normally contains potatoes, which are cut into large chunks and then placed in the pot. When a small variety of potatoes are used, the spuds can be peeled and added whole rather than chopped. Potatoes can also be cracked, which means they are partially cut in half before being boiled.
The potatoes and other marmitako ingredients are usually simmered in a large kettle. This could be over a fire or stove. The vegetables and spices are normally cooked until tender before the fish is added to the stew.
When finished, the marmitako is usually very thick. For this reason, it is considered more of a stew than a soup. This is true even though many recipes call for the use of fish broth. Some people may refer to it as a casserole rather than a fish stew. It can be served on a plate or in a bowl and can be eaten with a fork or spoon.
Marmitako is normally eaten as a main course for lunch or dinner. It is often served with a glass of wine when eaten for dinner or with a soft drink at lunch. Most people don’t eat this fish stew with any other dish because it is very filling. It could be enjoyed with freshly baked bread or a light salad if it’s part of a more elegant meal plan.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
