Anguilla in Umido (Stewed Eel)
Category: Main Dishes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eel (Anguilla) | 800g |
| San Marzano Tomatoes | 1kg |
| Fresh Basil | 1 sprig |
| Onions | 2, medium |
| Fresh Parsley | to taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | ½ cup |
| White Wine | 1 glass |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Eel:
Start by thoroughly cleaning the eel. Cut off the head and tail, then remove the internal organs. Next, slice the eel into chunks about 5 cm in length, making sure to leave the skin intact for a better texture during cooking. -
-
Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
Dice the San Marzano tomatoes. In a large pan, heat a little olive oil, then add a sprig of fresh basil and a pinch of salt. Let the tomatoes cook over medium heat for about 40 minutes until they break down and release their juices. Once they’ve softened, use a blender or pass them through a sieve to create a smooth sauce. Set the tomato sauce aside for later use. -
Cook the Onion and Parsley:
In a separate large frying pan, heat some more olive oil. Add the finely chopped onions and a handful of chopped fresh parsley. Sauté the onions until they become translucent and soft. -
Cook the Eel:
Add the eel pieces to the pan with the onions and parsley. Let them sauté for about 5 minutes until they develop a light golden color. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Deglaze and Add the Sauce:
Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, letting it evaporate as it sizzles. Once the wine has mostly evaporated, pour in the smooth tomato sauce you prepared earlier. Stir everything together and let it simmer on medium heat for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly and the flavors meld. -
Serving:
Once the eel is tender and the sauce is rich, transfer the stewed eel onto a serving platter. Serve it hot, making sure to scoop up the flavorful sauce with every bite. Garnish with a few extra fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
This stewed eel dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce or alongside steamed rice. The rich tomato sauce and tender eel create a comforting and hearty main dish, perfect for family meals or special gatherings.
Tip: The key to making this dish truly special lies in using fresh, high-quality eel and San Marzano tomatoes. Both ingredients enhance the depth and authenticity of the flavors, giving you a truly Mediterranean experience.
Enjoy your Anguilla in Umido as a delightful and unique dish that showcases the best of Italian coastal cuisine!
