Buying Fish – What to Look For?

The Four State Food Critic and his family love fish (and seafood in general).  It’s a weekly and sometimes bi-weekly protein featured in our meal planning.  There are so many varieties and types of fish that an interested home cook can experiment time and time again with new flavors, tastes, and techniques.

Studies report that most Americans don’t eat enough fish – and why is that?  Most of the time folks are intimidated when it comes to purchasing it.  There are so many selections at the fish market or supermarket – how does one know what to buy?  What should I look for?

(Image credit – michaeljlewis.wordpress.com)

First of all, get to know your fish monger or seafood clerk.  Ask questions.  They know what comes in, what’s good, and what to avoid.  They can also tell you what came in frozen and was thawed out for the display case (probably most selections at the supermarket, but there are some surprising finds, depending on how close you live to the coast or a good fish source).  A trusted seafood purveyor is like gold.  They’ll often have tips or suggestions on how to prepare your selection – but you have to ask.

Next up?  What to look for.  The key is using your eyes, nose, and other senses.  Does it look fresh?  Fresh whole fish have clear eyes and bright red interior gills.  Cut fillets look moist and do not have discolored or brown edges.  How does it smell?  Fresh fish does not smell “fishy” – it smells fresh and briny, like the ocean (some people often compare it to fresh cut cucumber or melon).  Give it a touch.  Does the flesh spring back?  Is it firm?  If not, it’s probably old and you shouldn’t buy it.

Lastly – when are you going to use it?  Fresh or thawed fish should be used within one to two days or purchase (I’d recommend the day of, for best results).  You can certainly buy frozen, but make sure you thaw it out in the fridge a day or two ahead of time (never thaw it out on the counter – that’s asking for trouble).

Keep these tips in mind this week as you shop for groceries, take a stroll by the fish counter, and take a good, long look at what’s offered.  Chat with the clerk.  You may find some delicious options, just waiting to be purchased!