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  • Writer's pictureErmanno Lelli

Tuna and the Sicilian tradition

Let’s start by saying that canned tuna is not “low quality”; some canned tuna of Sicilian and Calabrese brands are extremely expensive.

Tuna is a lean protein source packed with essential oils, vitamins, and other nutrients. It's a versatile ingredient that can waft you halfway to a home-cooked meal with the mere act of opening a can. This hearty fish is delicious in pizzas, salads, and pastas, and should be a staple in any home cook's pantry.

My canned favorite tuna brand:

"Tuna" is an essential part of the diet of Italian people

Commercially desirable fish, "tuna," is also an essential part of the diet of Italian people. It makes up a substantial percentage of the marine species' total economic value.

Which Tuna is a real Tuna?? Family

Tuna (genus Thunnus), often known as a tunny, is a member of the Scombridae family, containing large and tiny mackerels. However, there are tunas and "true tunas." The tuna species is dominated by two groupings (referred to as "tribes" at times). The first one is Thunnini; this group is of real tunas. They are distinguished by their two distinct dorsal fins and relatively thick bodies. Albacore, black skipjack, bigeye, Bluefin (Atlantic, Pacific, and southern), blackfin, bullet, frigate, kawakawa, tiny tunny, longtail, skipjack, slender, and yellowfin are among the 15 species of Thunnini.

The other tribe is Sardini; these tunas — the dogtooth tuna and other species of small true bonitos — resemble mackerel in appearance, distinguished by an elongated body and a row of sharp and conical teeth.

The Grandfather of my best friend “Gino the fisherman” was the inventor of the mother Tuna Net.

Tuna Fishing In the Sicily

Tuna fishing has a long history in Sicily. The chances are excellent that you will be near at least one colossal tuna fishery if you don't opt to stay along the southern shoreline. San Vito lo Capo and Bonagia are to the north of Favignana, the westernmost fishery. The island is made up of numerous fishing communities located in the south-eastern sections.


Tuna has always been on the menu in Sicily. When you go to Sicily, don't miss out on the chance to have some tuna. Breaded tuna steak is fried to perfection with little or no seasoning. Tuna steak may be used to cook on the grill without buying any as long as you have access to a villa with a barbeque. Tuna steaks and a light salad are great for having a great dinner while pondering their capture history.

Tuna Nutrition

Tuna contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids but is low in total fat. It is highly protein-dense. Calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, vitamin b, vitamin D, selenium, and choline are found in tuna. Tuna, like other canned products, may contain a high sodium content. Check food labels to identify low-sodium or no-salt-added items.

Tuna Health Benefits

Tuna has various health benefits whether you buy it fresh or canned. In the sections below, you will learn how tuna can benefit your health.

Lower Risk of Heart Disease

Tuna is high in omega-3 fatty acids that may help decrease omega-6 fatty acids and LDL cholesterol that can build up in the heart's arteries. Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids has been related to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks.

Preventing anemia

It contains iron, calcium, vitamin B, and other micronutrients. Micronutrient deficiencies can lead to a variety of anemia. Some symptoms of anemia include muscle weakness, blurred vision, excessive tiredness, and problems like infertility. Tuna is helpful in the prevention of anemia caused by dietary deficits.

Lower Risk of Cancer

Tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to aid in preventing tumor formation and inflammation. This is critical since cancer has been linked to persistent inflammation.

Helps in weight loss

Tuna is excellent lean meat. It is high in protein yet low in calories, which keeps you full and prevents overeating.

How to Use Tuna

Fresh or canned tuna is readily accessible in supermarkets across the country. Some people prefer canned tuna because it contains less mercury than fresh tuna. Canned tuna has been cooked in advance and is ready to use instantly upon opening.

Tuna steaks purchased in the store can be grilled, roasted, or sautéed in a saucepan. Before the cooking, season or marinate with your preferred seasoning or marinade. You can buy frozen tuna steaks throughout the year or wait until tuna season.

Italian Bean and Tuna Salad Recipe

Mix a can of tuna and 1/2 pound cannellini beans in a large mixing bowl. Mix 4-6 tbsp. Olive oil, two tbsp. Red wine vinegar and 2 garlic cloves in a separate bowl. Combine with the bean and tuna mixture—season to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish with some fresh chopped parsley and sliced onion. Enjoy!

Order my spaghetti tuna online in Hong Kong (link). You will also love our Penne Tuna Sicilian... Give it a try!

BUON APPETITO!

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