Seven fishes is a tradition for most Italian families on Christmas Eve. So, everything you want to know about creating this feast will have you ready to savour this Italian-American holiday tradition.
Seven Fishes
Typically, a family has a celebration of seven different types of seafood. However, some people even use one or two fish cooked in a lot of different types of food.
In many different sections of Italy, many of the families prepare different types of pasta as well as a fish soup. Also, some families even prepare homemade pasta with a sauce made with fish.
History of Seven Fishes
First and foremost, this tradition of eating fish on Christmas Eve dates back to the Roman Catholic tradition of not using dairy and meat on the Christmas Holiday.
Consequently, the number seven stems from ancient times. Meanwhile, the number seven is connected with multiple Catholic symbols; and is repeated over 700 times in the Bible. According to the Roman Catholic Church – seven are the sacraments and days of the Creation as well as the deadly sins. So, that is how it became known as seven courses.
Surprisingly, this custom didn’t begin until the 1900’s.
Seven Fishes Holiday Celebration
Are you planning to host? Since there are so many things you can do to make this feast special; I wanted to provide you with some tips.
- First, start with an antipasto. For the antipasto; you can have various cheeses, roasted vegetables and crudites.
- Have a lot of Wine.
- Second, no Italian-American celebration would be complete without including some type of pasta. Check-out my World Pasta Day post for some ideas.
- Third, Make a fish stew. For a healthy Italian Stew recipe; check out this “Yummy” Tuscan Seafood Stew recipe. Also, make sure you have some baguettes; so, your guests can dip this into the stew.
- Finally, finish with some delicious cookies, cake and chocolates.
Will you be eating seven fishes tonight?
As always, I welcome your comments.
Merry Christmas!
