" Japanese people may find this surprising, but eel is a common ingredient in European cuisine.
Kurokiba's Eel Matelote from the Classic's Semifinal Round is one such European dish."
"Southern Italy in particular has a tradition of eating eel right around Natale, which is Christmas. It's often served during the feasts for La Vigilia on Christmas Eve night.
The eels are supposed to symbolize devils, and eating them is thought to be a charm warding off bad luck and evil spirits. "

― , 食戟のソーマ 25 [Shokugeki no Souma 25] (Food Wars: Shokugeki no Soma, #25)