Literal translation
the fish must swim three times, in the sea, in the frying pan and in the belly
Meaning
fish should swim three times: in the sea, in the pan, and in wine
Explanation
This gastronomic saying describes in three stages the ideal journey of a fish to the table. Nada (to swim) and tres cop (three times) announce the structure ; mar (sea) recalls its natural element, sartan (frying pan) its cooking, and vèntre (belly) its consumption, washed down with wine as Provençal custom demands when eating fish. The saying plays on the verb nada literally for the sea, then figuratively for the pan, where the fish sizzles in hot oil as if still swimming, and finally for the belly, where the wine drunk generously makes it complete a third and final swim, this time in the diner's stomach. Its register belongs to Provençal table culture and conviviality, where eating fish traditionally calls for wine more generous than usual, thought to ease digestion. The saying is quoted at the start of a meal, urging guests not to skimp on wine when fish is on the menu.