The wonderful world of seafood

Today, we are focusing on a delicacy that appeals to the taste buds of gourmets and sea lovers alike: shellfish. Oceanic treasures that offer a culinary experience like no other - which explains their popularity around the world. Whether you're already a veteran shellfish connoisseur or only now discovering your love of seafood, we've got you covered with interesting facts and inspiration!

Mussels are known for their great taste and tender meat and are popular throughout Europe. In Spain, they are prepared in the traditional Galician style, cooked with a sprinkling of paprika and served with slices of lemon. Italy showcases its culinary prowess with dishes such as Spaghetti alle Vongole, where clams and mussels add a distinctive flavour to the pasta. The French have perfected the art of Moules Marinières, a dish of mussels steamed in white wine and garlic butter, often enjoyed with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Scallops, with their sweet and delicate flesh, are an especially sought-after seafood appreciated in many European countries. In Galicia, you'll encounter sizzling plates of Vieiras a la Gallega, where scallops are cooked in an aromatic blend of garlic, lemon and white wine. British cuisine features scallops in dishes with black pudding, offering a unique combination of flavours and textures. Not to be forgotten are the exquisite Coquilles Saint-Jacques from France, where scallops are baked in a creamy sauce and topped with golden breadcrumbs.

Oysters, known for their salty flavour and velvety texture, have been enjoyed in Europe for centuries. Ireland boasts the famous Galway oysters, plump and full of flavour. In Dutch cuisine, oysters can be found in dishes like Oesters en Champagne, where they are served on ice with a splash of champagne vinegar and some shallots. The French take pride in the variety of their oysters, with the Normandy region particularly famous for its Belon oysters, best savoured with a squeeze of lemon.

Razor clams, with their long and slender shells, are another hidden gem in the world of seafood. In Spain, they are grilled and seasoned with olive oil, garlic and parsley, creating an impressive dish in both taste and appearance.

We at Kikkoman understand the fascination of these wonderful shellfish and have developed exciting new must-try recipes! From mussels marinated in a spicy Kikkoman soy sauce to scallops with a hint of umami, our culinary creations will transport you to the coastal waters of Europe.