Big Mistakes To Avoid When Cooking Fish
NEWS
By BUFFY NAILLON
Compromised Quality
Prioritize investing in quality fish to avoid the risk of food poisoning. Opt for those with clear eyes, firm flesh and scales, and healthy pink or red gills.
To ensure a safer fish-buying experience, consider shopping at reputable grocery stores or specialty seafood markets known for stocking quality products.
The Wrong Fish
Converting non-seafood eaters often involves introducing them to milder-tasting fish, such as Alaska pollock, tilapia, or cod, to avoid the off-putting fishy taste.
Additionally, it’s crucial to consider dietary restrictions, like kosher diets that prohibit shellfish, and inquire about such restrictions when cooking fish for others.
Leaving Small Bones
To avoid choking on fishbones, be meticulous in their removal, especially since the “pin bones” are as thin as needles and often challenging to spot and extract.
A helpful trick involves placing the fish skin side down over a bowl, causing the bones to protrude, making it easier to spot them. Focus on the head as it holds more bones.
Cooking Incorrectly
Cooking fish requires precision, as its delicate nature makes it easy to overcook. One way to ensure a well-cooked fish is by recognizing signs of doneness.
Flaky texture, white juices, and crispy skin are a few signs you can rely on as there’s no universal temperature guideline due to varying requirements among different fish types.
Forgetting To Dry
Before cooking, patting fish meat dry with a paper towel is essential to absorb excess moisture, ensuring a well-seared exterior and preserving the flavors of seasonings.
Simply let the fish sit at room temperature before gently pressing it with a paper towel on a cutting board. This prevents issues like sticking to the pan or crumbled breading.
