THE gastronomy of Valencia hides many recipes in addition to the Valencian paellaknown throughout the world and loved in every corner of Spain, where the salmorrettaan ideal sauce to enhance the flavor of rice. An example of a Valencian dish little known outside the borders of the community is found in the titainaa dish that, at first glance, is reminiscent of the classic ratatouille, but which has its own identity, since the original recipe is made with an ingredient that can only be found on the coasts of the Levantine city.
This recipe has maritime origins and has, as its main ingredient, a food known on the Valencian coast. Although the production process is slow, it is not difficult to make, and we explain it here.
What is Valencian titaina?
Titaina is a humble dish born in Valencia, more precisely in the Cabanyal-Cañamelar neighborhood. The original recipe has Tonyina de Sorraa fatty part of the tuna belly. Tradition dictates that this recipe is made with terracotta pots and served with bread.
The recipe varied according to the customs of each house. For example, onion is an optional ingredient. When preparing a titaina, it must be done slow fire and, at the table, HE eat hot.
In the case of using tonyina de sorra, it is necessary leave to soak for at least 8 hours. If you do not have this product, you can opt for fresh tuna or tuna belly.
In the following lines, we share a version of titaina Economical and easy to make for six people. There is no tonyina de sorra but there is tuna belly. Additionally, you can add onion or not.
Ingredients for 6 people
The approximate price would be 16.5 eurosso six servings would cost 2.75 euros each.
- Tuna belly – approximate price of 3.10 euros / 1 package of 73 g
- 5 tomatoes – approximate price of 1.60 euros / 1 pack of 1 kg
- 1 garlic – approximate price of 1.80 euros / 1 pack of 250 g
- 1 red pepper – approximate price of 2.20 euros / 1 pack of 1 kg
- 30 g of pine nuts – approximate price of 7.80 euros / 1 pack of 50 g
- 1 onion (optional)
- olive oil
- Sugar
- Salt
Valencian titaina recipe
- In a pan, add olive oil, two chopped garlic cloves, onionif used, and red pepper, also crushed.
- We crush the tomatoes and we add them to the pan.
- We sauté over low heat. We add a little sugar to remove the acidity of the tomato.
- We add tuna belly cut it into pieces and continue cooking over low heat.
- Once it’s done, We mix the titaina with the pine nuts and we serve.
Benefits and properties of red pepper
Red pepper has a nutritional profile in which the vitamin Cessential for skin care and cell protection against free radicals. It is also rich in fiberwhich helps prevent problems such as constipation, and contains folatebeneficial for pregnant women.
This food contains antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthinwhich are good for visual health. In addition, thanks to its vitamin C content, pepper is good for strengthening the immune system.
According to the Spanish Nutrition Foundation (FEN), per 100 grams of edible portion, red pepper can contain:
- Energy: 40 kcal
- Protein: 1.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Water: 89.4g
- Potassium: 180 mg
- Phosphorus: 26 mg
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