Pescado Frito

“Pescado Frito” by Fortuna is a charming and whimsical song sung in Medieval Spanish, which takes listeners on a culinary journey through the eyes of Yaacó, a character who sells various foods. The song is structured around a repetitive and playful dialogue, where Yaacó is asked where he prepared his goods, and the answer is always the same: in the kitchen of Mazaltó. This repetition creates a rhythmic and engaging narrative that highlights the importance of food and community in medieval times.

The song begins with Yaacó selling fried fish, a staple in many cultures, especially in Mediterranean cuisine. The question “Ande ló frió?” (Where did he fry it?) is answered with “En el sartén de Mazaltó” (In Mazaltó’s pan). This pattern continues with Yaacó selling hot bread and herbs like parsley and cilantro, each time attributing the preparation to Mazaltó’s kitchen. The recurring mention of Mazaltó’s kitchen and its utensils, such as the pan, oven, and pot, emphasizes the central role of this place in the community’s culinary life.

The playful tone of the song, with its repetitive structure and humorous questioning, creates a light-hearted atmosphere. It reflects the communal nature of food preparation and consumption in medieval society, where kitchens were central hubs of activity and social interaction. The character of Yaacó, who seems to be a merchant or a cook, represents the everyday people who contributed to the vibrant food culture of the time. Fortuna’s choice to sing in Medieval Spanish adds an authentic touch, transporting listeners back to a time when food was not just sustenance but a vital part of social life and cultural identity.