As is well known, during Lent and Holy Week especially, Christians put aside red meat and opt for the consumption of fish and seafood. By the way, this is not a capricious or seasonal behavior, but the Church expressly forbids the consumption of red meat and poultry. This restriction, therefore, begins on Ash Wednesday, continues on Fridays throughout Lent and extends until Good Friday with a sense of atonement for sins, penance and recollection.
A bit of history…
The abstinence from red meat on the aforementioned vigil dates, as specified in the Code of Canon Law, is obligatory from the age of 14 until death. The origins of this Christian tradition are found in the Passion of Christ and his death on the cross, since red meats, according to some versions, recall the tormented body of Jesus in the Crucifixion.
Another explanation clarifies that this type of meat, unquestionable source of nutrients and energy, was to be avoided in order to mortify the body so that, in weakness, it could be completely dedicated to spiritual contemplation. Moreover, in ancient times, red meat was considered a delicacy of the rich, while fish was the food of the poor, so that depriving oneself of it was offered to God as a true sacrifice.
A tradition that is still relevant today
Nowadays, both the abstinence from red meat and fasting until the age of 59 are carried out by the Christian universe as a sign of penance, awaiting the Resurrection of Christ on Easter Sunday.
By the way, the observance of the prohibition of red meat intake has triggered the creativity of the gastronomic sector which, by highlighting the properties of fish and seafood, has created delicious dishes that do nothing but honor these meats.
Among them, the recipes based on the exquisite codfish stand out. exquisite codfish, so much soThis fish has come to be considered the “king of the Easter Vigil”. It is in this season, then, that housewives and restaurants resort to the enormous variety of frozen fish and seafood. frozen fish and seafood both to comply with church laws and to delight the family or diners.
Finally, it should be noted that, according to the National Geographic Society, it is advisable to buy frozen fish and seafood because this method reduces environmental impact and waste, protects the fisherman, economizes on preparations and optimizes the flavors and nutrients of meats.
