Cŵl Môr Platter

Introduction to the Cŵl Môr Platter

The Cŵl Môr Platter is a celebration of the bounties provided by the sea, capturing the essence of coastal culinary traditions. Known for its rich history, the dish is said to have originated in the coastal regions of Wales, where fishing has been a way of life for centuries. The term "Cŵl Môr" translates to "sea harvest," perfectly describing how this platter brings together a variety of seafood elements, each adding its unique flavor and texture.

Traditionally, the Cŵl Môr Platter was enjoyed by fishermen and their families as a means to showcase their catch after a day at sea. Over time, it has evolved into a beloved dish that is now a staple at seafood festivals and coastal eateries.

Ingredients

• Scallops - Fresh and juicy, providing a sweet flavor.
• Mussels - Briny and tender, adding depth to the platter.
• Prawns - Succulent and meaty, offering a rich taste.
• Lobster Tails - The crown jewel, luxurious and soft.
• Seaweed Salad - A refreshing and crunchy accompaniment.
• Lemon Slices - For garnishing and a citrus zing.
• Butter - Melted, to enhance the seafood flavors.
• Garlic - Aromatic, infusing the dish with a robust flavor.
• Parsley - Fresh, used for garnish.
• Salt & Pepper - To taste.
• White Wine - Adding a hint of acidity and complexity.

Preparation

Preparing the Seafood

Begin with cleaning and preparing the scallops, mussels, prawns, and lobster tails. Rinse them under cold water, removing any sand or debris. For the scallops, pat them dry with a paper towel.

Scallops should be removed from their shells and muscle. For the mussels, scrub the shells and de-beard them. Prawns can be shelled and deveined. Lobster tails should be split in half lengthwise.

Marinating

In a large bowl, mix the butter, minced garlic, freshly chopped parsley, and a splash of white wine. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the scallops, prawns, and lobster tails into the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Seafood

Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan. Start by grilling the marinated lobster tails, cut-side down, until they turn opaque. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a cooking timer to keep track.

Next, grill the scallops and prawns for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and firm to touch.

Simultaneously, steam the mussels in a pot with a mixture of white wine, a knob of butter, and finely chopped garlic. Cover the pot and let the mussels cook until they open, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Discard any mussels that do not open.

Assembly and Presentation

On a large serving platter, lay out the freshly grilled lobster tails, scallops, prawns, and steamed mussels. Arrange the seaweed salad in a decorative fashion around the seafood.

Garnish the platter with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon slices for a touch of color and an added burst of flavor.

How to Enjoy the Cŵl Môr Platter

The beauty of the Cŵl Môr Platter lies not only in its taste but also in the communal experience of sharing it. Serve it with a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer to complement the seafood flavors.

This dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a variety of textures and tastes in every bite. Encourage diners to squeeze fresh lemon over the seafood and dip pieces into any leftover butter sauce for an indulgent flavor explosion.

With its historic roots and delectable combination of fresh ingredients, the Cŵl Môr Platter is more than just a meal; it's a tribute to the sea and the culinary traditions born from its gifts.

So gather your loved ones, set the table with this opulent spread, and dive into the delightful experiences each bite offers, savoring not just the taste but the tradition of the Cŵl Môr Platter.