April 1 in the United States is known as April Fool’s Day. Since the 16th century, the French have had their prankster holiday known as Poisson d’Avril – the Fish of April. Their participation of humor on this day may very well have inspired our tradition. The legend began in the mid-1500’s when the calendar was adjusted to begin in January not March. Some rural areas did not hear the news in a timely manner or did not wish to change the calendar. So, the jokes began to reform the non-participants. Jokes and pranks with fish were played on those using the old calendar system.
It’s no surprise that cruising the world’s oceans gives one a special opportunity to visit famous ports offering wonderful fish dishes. Recently, Michael and I dined in a quaint outdoor cafe in the “Fish Market” section of Istanbul, Turkey. Table to table cheers of delight could be heard as whole, salt-crusted, fish was presented. Whole fish presentation is dramatic and appetizing. To celebrate the light-hearted holiday of Poisson d’Avril, I like to serve fish. I also buy small plastic fish and float the fish in bowls in odd places in the house to give friends and neighbors a chuckle. It’s the one time of year that culinary considerations can take some liberties and be just fish silly with creativity.
Mediterranean Salt-Crusted Fish
Use a baking sheet the length of the selected whole fish that has be cleaned and has had the scales removed. Line the baking sheet with baking Parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix 2 to 4 egg whites with 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water and a dash of Sherry respectively for a 1 lb. fish to a 3 lb. fish. To that mix 3 cups to 6 cups of Kosher salt, respectively. Put half of the salt mixture onto the Parchment paper.
Fill the fish’s cavity with lemon or orange slices, a rosemary sprig and a basil sprig. Drizzle a small amount of Sherry into the fish’s cavity. Rub the fish with olive oil. Set the prepared fish on top of the salt mixture. Cover the top side of the fish with the remaining salt mixture, which encases and seals the fish.
Bake the fish about 30 minutes to 45 minutes at 400 degrees until the fish is cooked. Remove the fish from the oven and flake off the salt. Serve with a lemon butter sauce.
This delicious Mediterranean style fish will tickle a fancy for you and surprise your guests.