Conero “Paccassassi”
(Sea Fennel)
(Sea Fennel)
Paccasassi is the local name for sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum), a wild coastal plant that grows in close contact with the sea.
Its name refers to its remarkable ability to thrive among rocks and cliffs, where it takes root and draws nourishment from sand, sea spray, and saline soils.
A resilient and distinctive plant, sea fennel has been part of the culinary and cultural heritage of coastal communities for generations, valued for its unique flavour and strong connection to the maritime environment.
SEA FENNEL: THE HISTORY OF CONERO PACCASASSI
Sea fennel is naturally distributed along the coasts of the Mediterranean and Northern Europe and has been valued since ancient times for both its culinary uses and its beneficial properties.
Its trade was already well established until the late nineteenth century, and it is even mentioned in literary works such as King Lear by William Shakespeare and Moby-Dick by Herman Melville.
Traditionally consumed by maritime communities, sea fennel was particularly appreciated for its high vitamin C content.
Today, it is attracting growing interest for its nutritional profile, rich in polyphenols, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a highly valuable ingredient in modern diets.
Over time, however, its natural distribution has declined, likely due in part to indiscriminate wild harvesting, which reduced its presence in coastal habitats.
For this reason, in many Mediterranean areas—and especially along the Conero Adriatic coastline—sea fennel is now considered a protected species.
Sea fennel is also included in the Slow Food Foundation for Biodiversity’s Ark of Taste, a recognition that helps safeguard this unique and rare ingredient for future generations.
From the Sea to Your Table: Discover the Taste of Sea Fennel
Sea fennel capture the flavour of the sea and the aroma of the land.
Their taste is savoury and briny, with aromatic citrus notes and delicate hints of fennel and carrot. Their fleshy, succulent leaves contribute to a distinctive texture and a pleasant mouthfeel.
Traditionally, Sea fennel are marinated in wine vinegar and then preserved in extra virgin olive oil, a preparation that enhances their character while preserving their unique qualities.
Versatile and distinctive, Sea fennel can be enjoyed in many ways: ideal for aperitifs and appetizers, perfect for enhancing simple dishes, or as a key ingredient in more sophisticated culinary creations.
How to Enjoy Sea fennel
Versatile and distinctive, Sea fennel are perfect on crostini, pizzas, and flatbreads, and pair beautifully with cured meats, anchovies, smoked fish, and dairy products.
They are ideal alongside both meat and fish dishes and can also enhance salads and simple everyday recipes.
One of the most traditional combinations is bread, mortadella, and Sea fennel—a classic pairing that highlights their unique flavour.
Sea fennel are especially well suited to seafood, whether raw or cooked. From tartares and carpaccios to grilled and baked fish dishes, they enhance freshness and bring a pleasant briny note to every preparation.
A unique ingredient capable of adding character and originality to even the simplest dish.
