Spices for fish, shellfish and molluscs

Learn more about fish spices

Fish is a noble and versatile ingredient, loved all over the world for its delicate flavor and nutritional properties. However, to best enhance its characteristics, the use of the right spices is essential. Spices not only enrich the flavor of fish, but can also transform a simple recipe into a gourmet dish .

Spices for Salmon

Salmon , with its rich and tasty flesh , is a fish that lends itself to numerous culinary preparations. To best enhance its qualities, using the right spices is essential.

  • Cumin : This warm, earthy spice may seem unusual, but it pairs wonderfully with salmon, especially when baked or grilled.
  • Sweet Paprika : Sweet paprika adds color and a subtle, smoky flavor to salmon. Use in marinades or as a final sprinkle before serving.

Swordfish Spices

Swordfish is a versatile ingredient that lends itself to many preparations. Its consistency makes it perfect for quick grilling or for more elaborate preparations such as carpaccio or baked fillets.

  • Za'atar : Za'atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend of thyme, sesame, and sumac, is a perfect addition to swordfish. Its combination of aromatic, slightly acidic, and toasted flavors contrasts deliciously with the fish. Marinate swordfish fillets in a mixture of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and za'atar for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Smoked Paprika : With its intense and slightly spicy flavor, this spice gives swordfish a smoky and decisive touch. It is perfect for those who love strong and decisive flavors . Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the swordfish marinade , along with garlic, black pepper and aromatic herbs, or make a rub based on smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt and black pepper.

Spices for Shrimp

Shrimp have always been a staple on tables around the world. From Spanish paella to Thai pad thai, these versatile crustaceans lend themselves to endless culinary preparations. But the real secret to transforming a simple shrimp dish into an unforgettable gastronomic experience lies in choosing the right spices.

  • Curry : With its base of turmeric, coriander and cumin, it pairs beautifully with shrimp. The natural sweetness of the shellfish perfectly balances the slightly spicy notes of the curry. Try making sautéed shrimp with curry , coconut milk and a touch of lime: you will obtain a creamy dish with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy and acidic.
  • Garam Masala : This blend can elevate a shrimp dish to gourmet levels. Mix garam masala with yogurt and lemon juice to create a marinade for shrimp . Use garam masala to flavor basmati rice , adding sautéed shrimp at the last minute.

Spices for Calamari

Squid is a perfect blank canvas for experimenting with spices. The art of spicing calamari requires a delicate hand and an attentive palate. It is a balancing act , a dance of flavors that requires knowledge, creativity and a pinch of audacity.

  • Turmeric : Turmeric, with its golden color and slightly earthy flavor, offers an interesting twist on calamari. Try marinating calamari in a mixture of turmeric, olive oil, and lemon juice before grilling.
  • Harissa : This North African chili paste can transform a calamari dish into a spicy experience. Brush calamari with harissa diluted in olive oil before grilling or pan-frying. Serve this harissa-sautéed calamari over a bed of citrus couscous .

Spices for Mussels

Mussels are capable of absorbing and amplifying the aromas with which they are cooked. This is where the art of spices comes into play to enhance the flavor , a subtle play of balances and contrasts that can transform a simple dish of mussels into an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

  • Ginger : Gives a spicy and slightly spicy note , perfect for an oriental touch. The delicate and slightly iodized taste of mussels finds a perfect balance with the spicy and aromatic note of ginger.
  • Kaskà : The combination of aromatic spices of Kaskà, such as cumin, coriander and chilli, marries perfectly with the delicate and iodized taste of mussels, creating a balanced dish full of nuances.