So you are going to enter the domain of seafood markets and your challenge is to find the freshest seafood. Its big, loud and fun! So many choices, boxes of iced fish straight off the trawlers, crustacean, shellfish and everything in between. Your prize will be the perfect catch! There are definite tips when fish is fresh, here are some simple ways to help you know how.
1 EYES
The eyes should be crystal clear, bulging and shiny. This is a sure-fire way to find your perfect catch.
Avoid – Sunken, cloudy & dry.
2 SCALES & FINS
The fish should be healthy looking, wet & shiny with unblemished skin that is all intact.
Avoid – Dry, flaky, torn or ragged.
3 GILLS
You want bright red gills, vibrant and clean.
Avoid – Dark Brown, slimy and sticky.
4 FIRM FLESH
The flesh should be firm and still in its natural state with a taut belly. It you get a chance to touch it push down and it should spring right back.
Avoid – Distorted, swollen or sunken.
5 THE SMELL
It should smell briny and of the sea with no noticeable odors.
Avoid – Fishy aromas.
Once you have used these 5 tips and chosen your perfect catch, ask the fishmonger to fillet the fish for you to ensure the highest quality product ready for the kitchen.
