Galician Mariscada

Introduction to Galician Mariscada

Galician Mariscada is a seafood feast originating from the coastal region of Galicia in northwestern Spain. Known for its abundant and thriving seafood industry, Galicia offers fresh and luscious shellfish like lobsters, crabs, and a variety of mollusks. The name "Mariscada" is derived from "marisco," meaning seafood in Spanish, and it reflects Galicia's gastronomic heritage. Traditionally, this dish is served during festive occasions, bringing together family and friends to savor the bountiful 'fruits of the sea.'

Ingredients

To prepare an authentic Galician Mariscada, gather the following ingredients:

• Lobster - 1 large
• Crab - 2 large
• Clams - 200g
• Mussels - 200g
• Shrimp - 500g
• Scallops - 200g
• Olive Oil - 4 tablespoons
• Lemon - 2, cut into wedges
• Parsley - a handful, chopped
• Sea Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• White Wine - 1 cup

Preparation

Cleaning the Seafood

Start by cleaning the lobster, crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and scallops. Ensure all seafood is thoroughly rinsed under cold running water to remove sand and debris. Scrub the mussels with a brush and remove their beards. Likewise, scrub the clams to ensure they are grit-free. De-vein the shrimp and remove their shells, leaving the tails intact for presentation.

Preparing the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon wedges, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well emulsified. This marinade will infuse the seafood with vibrant flavors.

Cooking Process

Steaming the Shellfish

In a large pot, pour in 1 cup of white wine and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cleaned clams and mussels into the pot, covering with a lid. Steam them until they open, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Discard any that remain closed as they are not safe to eat. Transfer the cooked shellfish to a large serving platter.

Grilling the Lobster and Crab

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Split the lobster and crab in half, then brush with the olive oil marinade. Grill the lobster and crab cut side down for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they develop a crispy char and are cooked through. Place them alongside the shellfish on the serving platter.

Sautéing the Shrimp and Scallops

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and scallops, sautéing for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and slightly golden. Season with a dash of sea salt and black pepper, then transfer to the platter with the rest of the seafood.

Serving and Enjoying Galician Mariscada

Arrange all the seafood on a large, vibrant platter. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp, chilled Albariño wine, enhancing the fresh flavors and spirit of Galicia. Serve with rustic bread and a green salad for a full, satisfying meal.

To truly enjoy Galician Mariscada, create a convivial atmosphere. Gather loved ones around the table, encouraging casual, shared dining. Each person can customize their flavors with extra lemon juice, olive oil drizzle, or a sprinkle of sea salt. This communal experience captures the essence and traditions of Galician seafood festivals, where food is not just sustenance but a celebration of culture and camaraderie.