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The Festive Flavors of Italy: Unwrapping the Tradition of The Feast of the Seven Fishes

As the holiday season approaches, Italian-American families around the world prepare to celebrate a beloved tradition: The Feast of the Seven Fishes. This festive meal, known as “La Vigilia” in Italy, is a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Italian-Americans, with its roots firmly planted in Southern Italy.

A Seafood Extravaganza

The Feast of the Seven Fishes is characterized by an array of dishes featuring fish and seafood, reflecting the Roman Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat on Fridays and holidays. Southern Italy, with its extensive coastlines, has had a profound influence on the holiday menu, with seafood playing a starring role.

A Legacy of Migration

The economic disparities between Northern and Southern Italy led to a significant migration of millions from the south to the United States and other global destinations during the late 1800s and early 1900s. These migrants carried their culinary heritage with them, shaping the seafood-centric celebrations of Christmas Eve in Italian-American communities.

Variations on a Theme

While the tradition remains strong, the way it’s celebrated varies greatly from family to family and community to community. Different seafood dishes are chosen based on local availability, family preferences, and individual interpretations of the tradition. One constant, however, is the lingering aroma of fried seafood that permeates the air – and the clothes – for days to come.

The Significance of Seven

The number seven in “The Feast of the Seven Fishes” has biblical origins, symbolizing perfection and completion. While some families adhere strictly to seven fish dishes, others may opt for fewer or more, depending on their preferences. The flexibility of the tradition is a testament to its adaptability and evolution over time.

Ranking the Stars: A Feast of the Seven Fishes Power Ranking

From the worst to the best, here’s a breakdown of the standout dishes that make this feast so unforgettable:

16. Scungilli: The worst of the bunch, scungilli is chewy, rubbery, and requires serious culinary skills to prepare correctly.

17. Eel: Gross, scary, and often substituted in sushi restaurants, eel is a fish that’s better left uneaten.

18. Smelts: Whether saltwater or freshwater, smelts taste like, well, bait fish.

19. Gamberetti (Shrimp): While shrimp can be prepared in various ways, it’s nothing special and is often overshadowed by other dishes.

20. Calamari Fritti (Fried Calamari): A crowd-pleaser, but too mainstream to snag the top spot.

21. Frutti Di Mare (Mixed Seafood Salad): A medley of the sea’s finest, but often lacks balance.

22. Baccalà (Salt Cod): Salty, fishy, and acquired, baccalà is not for everyone.

23. Fritto Misto (Mixed Fried Seafood): Upgraded fried calamari, but still not the best.

24. Insalata di Mare (Seafood Salad): A mixed bag of seafood, but when balanced correctly, it’s a masterpiece.

25. Calamari alla Griglia (Grilled Calamari): A game-changer, with a slight char and balsamic complement.

26. Fish Entrees: Reliable and delicious, whether grilled, baked, or fileted.

27. Cozze (Mussels): Deceptive and delicious, but beware of the occasional bad mussel.

28. Scallops: Sweet and tender, especially when fresh.

29. Clams: The absolute best, especially when paired with linguine and garlic.

30. Crab: King of the feast, in all its forms – from crab dip to cioppino.

31. Lobster Fra Diavolo: The main event, the showstopper, and the fiery champion of the Seven Fishes.

A Time for Family and Food

As families gather around the kitchen, sharing stories and laughter, The Feast of the Seven Fishes becomes more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of heritage, tradition, and love. So, take a moment to appreciate the flavors, the company, and the memories made around the table. Buon Natale!