Great Cornish Seafood Weekend

If we asked you to list the foods you associate with Cornwall, chances are seafood would feature somewhere near the top. This is borne out by research from the Cornish Fish Producers’ Organisation (CFPO), showing that 60% of visitors cross the Tamar with the specific intention of not only feasting upon fish and succulent shellfish, but also meeting the people who catch it and finding out more about their work.

“More than anywhere else in the UK, in Cornwall tourists ‘eat the view’,” says Chris Ranford, chief executive officer of the Newlyn-based CFPO. “It’s all part of the experience.”

And it’s not just picture-postcard fishermen’s cottages and colourful boats bobbing on the briny, although these undoubtedly have large appeal. “We know tourists come to look at working fishing harbours, because they speak to the fishermen,” says Chris. “What are you doing? What’s in that box? Let me see the colours. There’s a fascination, a genuine excitement and curiosity in this unique lifestyle.”

Chris confirms that the fishing industry is four times more important to Cornwall than anywhere else in the UK. By buying local produce, you are investing in a food supply chain of around 8,000 jobs, from the fishermen out at sea to those working in the harbours and markets, to the hospitality outlets serving your moules frites.

There are 50 registered landing sites on a coastline that’s over 300 miles long. So when you go for that spectacular coastal walk, you’ll quickly come across evidence of fishing activity: a cove or harbour, a cafe with crab sandwiches on the menu.

Being on holiday, whether in Cornwall or abroad, is a golden opportunity to push the boat out (ahem) and try something different. Chris recommends a couple of species which are abundant, seasonal and have been rebranded to reflect their connection and importance to home waters.

Spider crab has been rebranded as Cornish King Crab. “The quality and freshness are excellent,” says Chris. “Historically, the name put people off; yet once they’ve tried it, lots of people prefer its sweeter taste. We’re trying to encourage more restaurants and cafes to put it on the menu.” Savour with a bottle of white wine over a few hours, and watch the world go by – slow food at its finest.

Alternatively, try megrim, aka Cornish sole – a tasty flat fish that’s a year-round staple and is traditionally exported (the Spanish love it). Similar to Dover sole but much more affordable, its stocks are healthy, making this an ecofriendly choice.

If you fancy cooking up a storm yourself, remember that many fishermen will sell direct to you (visit the Seafood Cornwall website for advance information). “There’s no better experience than going down to the quay with a bag and some money, and buying it from the bloke who caught it,” says Chris. “He will charge a fair price, tell you the provenance and advise you on how to cook it. They aren’t just hunter-gatherers – they are pretty savvy with a recipe and a kitchen knife.” He recommends sardines for a tasty barbecue option.

You don’t have to be by the sea to join in the fun. Over in Truro, the Great Cornish Food Store hosts the Great Cornish Seafood Weekend from October 25 to 27, celebrating the county’s fishing industry and all those who work in it.

Look out for street food, cookery demonstrations, an oyster and fizz bar, sea shanties, and children’s activities such as fishy face painting and mobile rock pooling.

“We found that when we asked people what food they most associated with Cornwall, more stated seafood than pasties or cream teas,” says Ruth Huxley, director of the Great Cornish Food Store. “That’s why we want to shine a light on this important industry. I’m really looking forward to introducing people to the huge variety of fish available from our waters, and the people who make it all possible.”

The Great Cornish Seafood Weekend takes place on October 26 and 27 at the Great Cornish Food Store in Truro (next to Waitrose). www.greatcornishfood.co.uk

Copy by Kirstie Newton for Food Lifestyle Magazine