La Girelle and Its Famous Soup: Story and Recipe
The region of Marseille is not only rich in history but also in local legends. Among these, a lesser-known but equally fascinating anecdote is that of the Girelle, a character said to be linked to the story of Le Comte de Monte-Cristo and the famous Château d’If. According to legend, before becoming Le Comte de Monte-Cristo, Edmond Dantès would fish for girelles every day and prepare a delicious soup, which he shared with the prison guard.
The Story of La Girelle: Between Legend and Reality
In the fictional story of Le Comte de Monte-Cristo, Edmond Dantès is unjustly imprisoned at the Château d’If, where he plans his revenge against those who betrayed him. However, a less dramatic anecdote suggests that, during his imprisonment, he befriended one of the guards. This guard allegedly allowed him to go out each morning to fish in the clear waters of the Mediterranean, where small fish known as girelles were abundant.
These colorful fish, typical of the Mediterranean coasts, were the base for a fish soup that Dantès prepared in the evening. He shared this soup with the guard, and through this daily ritual, he earned the nickname “La Girelle”. This simple act of sharing became a symbol of humanity and survival in the harshest of conditions.
The Girelle Soup Recipe
Girelle soup is a typical Provençal dish that evokes both the simplicity and richness of Mediterranean flavors. In Marseille, this type of soup is a tribute to the sea and its products. Here is an authentic version of the recipe that you can easily prepare at home.
Ingredients:
- 500g of fresh girelles (or any other small Mediterranean fish)
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 fennel branch
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Saffron (optional)
- Salt, pepper
- 1 bouquet garni (bay leaf, thyme)
- Croutons and rouille for serving
Preparation :
- Clean the fish: Gut and clean the girelles, then set them aside.
- Prepare the vegetables: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pot and sauté the finely chopped onion and garlic. Add the chopped tomatoes and let them cook for a few minutes.
- Cook the fish: Add the girelles, bouquet garni, fennel, and saffron (if using). Cover with about 1.5 liters of water and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Let simmer over low heat for 20 to 30 minutes. Season to taste.
- Serve: Strain the soup or serve it as is, accompanied by garlic-rubbed croutons and rouille.
A Dish That Connects History and Provençal Culture
Beyond its delicious taste, girelle soup symbolizes the deep connection between the history of the Marseille region and its culinary traditions. This dish perfectly illustrates how a simple fish can weave a link between a literary legend and Mediterranean culture. Whether you’re a food lover or curious about local traditions, this soup is a must-try for tasting the authenticity of Marseille.
Next time you visit the Château d’If, imagine Edmond Dantès fishing for girelles and preparing this simple yet comforting soup. And if you stay at La Girelle, our hostel located nearby, you’ll have the chance to taste this soup in honor of this culinary legend.
