Spiderfish, a species associated with painful bites in low tide areas on the Portuguese coast, especially in the Algarve, is gaining an increasing presence in regional restaurants, currently being served in several restaurants in the form of fried fillets. According to , the Trachinus the dragon it went from being an avoided fish to an ingredient on menus in Algarve establishments, especially in Olhão and nearby areas.
According to the same source, the spiderfish has always been captured in the traditional Xávega Art nets, often arriving on the sand together with other species. Their presence on the beach was common and also generated episodes of bites among fishermen and buyers of fresh fish.
From distrust to domestic consumption
For a long time there was a perception that fish might not be suitable for consumption, which led to its commercial devaluation. The publication adds that, despite this, it was consumed in a family context, usually fried in flour, maintaining some presence in traditional taverns.
It is also known that, from 2014 onwards, spider fish dishes began to appear in restaurants in the Algarve, particularly in the Olhão area. This change marked the beginning of the culinary appreciation of the species, which began to integrate fixed proposals in some menus.
Dish that gained its own identity
The same source mentions that the Terra i Mar restaurant was one of the first to highlight spider fish fillets as a specialty, served with garlic mayonnaise. SIC Notícias adds that Miguel Fernandes, associated with the space, refers to the dish as a central element of the restaurant’s identity since its opening.
Spiderfish started to be served in several establishments in the Algarve, including the Marina com Noélia restaurant, in Olhão, where it is presented with side dishes such as xerém or bivalve bread. This integration reinforces the connection with the region’s traditional cuisine.
Between the coast and the Algarve interior
It is also important to highlight that the dish can also be found at the O Primo dos Caracóis restaurant, between Olhão and Fuseta, as well as at Mato à Vista, in Paderne, in the municipality of Albufeira. The same source mentions that its presence demonstrates a spread beyond the most direct coastal areas.
Spiderfish is also on the menu at the O Rui restaurant, on the island of Culatra. SIC Notícias adds that this presence confirms its continued appreciation in different contexts of the Algarve, including barrier islands.
Fish that made it into gastronomic guides
The same publication writes that “Spiderfish fillets” also appear in publications dedicated to traditional gastronomy, such as the “365 Tascas & Marisqueiras” guide. According to SIC Notícias, this work brings together various recipes and restaurant spaces distributed throughout the country.
The guide includes approximately 260 pages and identifies approximately 250 bars and 115 seafood restaurants. The same source adds that the publication organizes these spaces by regions, including North, Center, South and islands.
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