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What is bottarga and how does it taste?
If you’ve never heard of bottarga, you’re not alone. Some people can’t even pronounce it – don’t worry, we had to Google it too. Bottarga (remember to roll that B into a V) is cured fish roe taken from things like gray mullet, swordfish, or even bluefin tuna, and dried into plates. Sometimes called Mediterranean caviar, it is often considered a delicacy. First used by fishermen in ancient times when “waste not, want not” was more than just a mantra, bottarga was considered a labor-intensive product to create.
The rise of bottarga
Fast forward to today, and this staple of the Italian islands of Sicily and Sardinia is going mainstream. A few decades ago, bottarga was little known in the United States, but Mario Batali was a chef who encouraged the masses to grate it over their favorite pasta. In fact, most bottarga consumed in the United States is imported from Pescasarda, Sardinia, and the first bottarga factory was built on the coast of Sardinia. Today, Bottarga is enjoyed sprinkled over all things Italian, including vegetables, pizzas, salads, and even scrambled eggs.
The flavor profile of bottarga
Often described as deeply savory, bottarga is grated and used in a manner similar to parmesan cheese to create a burst of umami that must be experienced to be truly appreciated. The intensity of the flavor depends largely on the fish roe used to make the bottarga. For example, bottarga made with the roe of grey mullet caught in the lakes of Sardinia and the lagoons of Tuscany can have an intense flavor, but a bitter aftertaste that is pleasant to the palate.
Where to find bottarga
While bottarga is becoming increasingly popular, don’t expect to find it in your local grocery store. You may have better luck at a specialty market or even online platforms like Amazon. When you are ready to use your bottarga, you will notice that it is wrapped in a thin, papery skin called a pellicle. Remember to peel this back before you start grating.
Long shelf life
Don’t worry if you can’t use your bottarga quickly – a fun fact about bottarga is that it is “rot-resistant”. According to the Macchi Inc. blog, its shelf life is about five years when kept tightly wrapped in plastic and stored in the refrigerator. So you can enjoy the flavors of bottarga for an extended period of time.
In conclusion, bottarga is a unique and flavorful delicacy made from cured fish roe. With its deep umami flavor and versatile use in various dishes, it has gained popularity beyond its traditional Mediterranean roots. While it may not be readily available at your local grocery store, exploring specialty markets or online platforms can help you find this culinary gem. So if you’re looking to add a touch of Mediterranean flair and a burst of savory flavor to your dishes, give bottarga a try.
FAQS
Bottarga is a cured fish roe typically obtained from fish such as gray mullet, swordfish or bluefin tuna. The roe is dried into plates, resulting in a flavorful and unique culinary ingredient.
How is bottarga used in the kitchen?
Bottarga is often grated and used as a condiment or garnish in various dishes. It can be sprinkled over pasta, vegetables, pizzas, salads and even scrambled eggs to add a burst of savory flavor.
What does Bottarga taste like?
Bottarga is described as deeply savory and is known for its umami-rich flavor profile. The taste can vary depending on the type of fish roe used, but generally offers a unique combination of saltiness and richness.
Where can I find bottarga?
Bottarga may not be readily available in regular grocery stores. However, you can find it in specialty markets that offer a wider range of gourmet ingredients. Online platforms such as Amazon also offer opportunities to purchase bottarga.
How should I store bottarga?
Bottarga should be stored properly to preserve its quality. It is typically wrapped in a thin papery skin called a pellicle, which should be peeled back before use. To extend its shelf life, wrap bottarga tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.
What is the shelf life of Bottarga?
When properly stored, Bottarga has a long shelf life. It can last up to five years when tightly wrapped and refrigerated. This makes it a convenient ingredient to have on hand for various culinary creations.