Mariscada Galega Suprema
Mariscada Galega Suprema is a sumptuous seafood dish that is a hallmark of Galician cuisine from the northwest coast of Spain. Known for its rich maritime traditions and abundant seafood, Galicia offers this culinary delight as a celebration of its natural bounty. Traditionally prepared during festivals and family gatherings, Mariscada showcases the freshest local seafood, such as langoustines, crabs, and mussels, combined with simple yet flavorful accents that let the ingredients shine. Span the flavors of the Galician coast with this exquisite dish steeped in cultural heritage.
Ingredients
- Langoustines (500g)
- Crab (1 whole, about 800g)
- Mussels (1kg)
- Clams (500g)
- Shrimp (600g)
- Olive oil (100ml)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Bay leaves (2)
- White wine (250ml, preferably Albariño)
- Lemon (1)
- Parsley (fresh, finely chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
Preparation
Begin by thoroughly cleaning all the seafood. Rinse the mussels and clams under cold running water, scrubbing them with a brush and discarding any that remain open after a gentle tap. Devein the shrimp and rinse them as well. For the crab, separate the claws and crack them slightly to help infusion of flavors during cooking. Prepare your work area with all ingredients washed, peeled, and chopped as needed.
Cooking Process
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or paella pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the garlic and bay leaves, sautéing until the garlic is golden but not burnt.
- Add the crab pieces and langoustines, stirring occasionally for a few minutes until they begin to color.
- Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to let the alcohol evaporate. This step will provide a fragrant base for your seafood dish.
- Add the mussels, clams, and shrimp. Stir and cover the pan, allowing the steam to open the shellfish and cook the shrimp through.
- After about 5 to 7 minutes, check the seafood. Once all shellfish shells have opened and the shrimp are pink and opaque, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.
- Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the seafood to brighten flavors and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking time should be about 25 minutes from start to finish.
Enjoying Mariscada Galega Suprema
This dish is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce and a crisp, chilled glass of Albariño wine. Sit back and enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Galician coast, as each bite brings a taste of the ocean mixed with simple, natural herbs and spices.