Of course Portugal - dominated by its Atlantic coastline has a historic relationship with the sea and sea fishing. Inevitably it is reflected in their national dishes - and it is a joy and for some an eye opener.
It is hard not to feel frustrated with the British consumer who struggle to enjoy much more than Friday cod, fish fingers, farmed salmon, tinned tuna and frozen prawns (and now an obsession with Sea Bass). There is so much more that our fisherman catch but much of it is exported to European markets because we are so squeamish and set in our ways.
If we were more willing to eat a wider variety of fish and shellfish - or at least try it, so many benefits would accrue. We would have so much more choice, the price would come down, it would be healthier for us, our food would have more range and be more interesting and of course our fish use would be more sustainable overall because there would be less pressure on particular species such as the over fished cod.
On Armona - most of the locals seem to have their own small fishing boat and lots of people evidently forage for shell fish. It is a great thing to do.
Pictured below is Olhao fish market and the range of fish available. It is full of local people buying domestic size quantities. There are also a few pictures of the lovely dishes we were able to enjoy!
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