Razza, Arzilla

Skate is similar to monkfish and John Dory in that only a part of this fish is eaten, in this case the wings, or outer fins. The fish is completely flat and lives on the bottom of the seabed where it is perfectly camouflaged under the sand. Skate wings are sold skinned and only the long structural cartilage left in place. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways in a special fish stew or soup, boiled and eaten with butter or Hollandaise sauce, grilled or deep-fried coated with beaten egg and breadcrumbs. Whichever way it is prepared, though, it is quite delicious and highly recommended, provided you do not mind the cartilage, of course.