Learn How to Prepare Fish the Way Dalmatians Do

Fish forms an essential part of Dalmatian cuisine, which is one of the reasons why it is considered to be one of the healthiest in the world. Life at the seaside clearly influences the food choices Dalmatians make and it is not a secret that they are the absolute masters of preparing fish.

So, here are a few tips about how to make sure you fish turns out incredibly delicious:

Fresh is the best

There’s nothing like a fresh fish bought early in the morning when the fishermen come back from their fishing trip. However, if you’re not an early bird, buying the fish from a fishmonger at the market will do the trick just as well. Even better, they will probably also do you a favour and clean it for you. If not, it is always good to dip the knife blade in salt which makes the removing of scales easier. In case there is no other option but to use frozen fish, remember to thaw it in cold water or leave it out in the air for a few hours - it’s the best option to preserve its quality.

Say ‘no’ to marinade

Unlike meat which is juicier if marinated, any Dalmatian will tell you to rub some salt into the fish, just before it’s made. If you season it with salt and leave it so for quite a while, the salt will cause the fish to lose its nutritive value.

Grill it

Fish na gradele, which basically translates as ‘grilled fish’ is one of the most favourite ways to prepare fish in Dalmatia. Be it sea bream, sea brass or sardines, they are fast to make and absolutely delicious to take. In order to avoid sticking, people in Dalmatia know that they shouldn’t wash the fish beforehand and to cover it with some olive oil. Also, it’s obvious that the smaller the fish the less time it will take to have it ready. In fact, just a couple of minutes are enough to prepare sardines.

Make a juicy sauce

A typical sauce Dalmatians use to give the fish that special taste is a mixture of olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon juice and pepper. Some prefer to add also rosemary, Dalmatia’s native plant, which gives the sauce a distinctive taste, equally delicious.

Just the right side dish

It’s very simple, traditional, healthy and light. It’s potato salad with Swiss chard. It has a very easy recipe, but it is sure to complete your fish meal.

Keep in mind the old saying …

Having a fish served at a restaurant is a carefree way to get a taste of Dalmatian cuisine. But why not make an effort and try to do it the way Dalmatians do? After all, they are the ultimate masters of fish specialties. Just don’t forget the most important thing about fish as expressed in an old Dalmatian saying - to taste just right, a fish must swim three times: in the sea, in olive oil and in wine. In other words, always remember to have your fish with a glass of excellent wine. Enjoy your meal and cheers!