Alaskan Pollock
Although many people are not familiar with Pollock, it is used commonly in breaded fish varieties sold in grocery store freezer cases and in breaded fish in fast food restaurants. Alaskan Pollock, a member of the cod family, is a very plentiful–and therefore affordable–fish. It is also environmentally-friendly, sustainable, and low in mercury. As the season of Lent approaches (as well as year-round), the versatile Alaskan Pollock is an excellent option for everyone from fine diners to families on a budget.
Selection:
Alaskan Pollock is a lean, delicate whitefish, packed with protein and minerals. Since Pollock is caught far away, it is best to buy frozen varieties which will retain greater freshness. Pollock also is used for surimi (imitation crab) which is sometimes used in sushi rolls.
Cooking Tips:
Frozen fish should not be thawed before poaching, steaming or barbecuing in foil, but should be thawed in the refrigerator or a cold water bath (never at room temperature) before frying, barbecuing, or microwaving. For food safety purposes, Alaskan Pollock should never be eaten raw.
- Pollock can be prepared directly from frozen in minutes, providing a great alternative for quick weeknight meals.
- Pollock can be substituted for any other whitefish (such as tilapia, cod or sole) in recipes.
- Avoid broiling Pollock, as the fish can dry easily.
Recipe Ideas:
Pollock lends itself well to a Thai curry sauce, made of curry paste and coconut milk. Serve with jasmine rice.
Beer batter is a wonderful complement to this delicate whitefish. Beer-battered fish strips can be served with homemade tartar sauce or malt vinegar. Try this recipe (complete with smashed potatoes) to start.
Fish stew served with rustic bread can be a beautiful cold weather supper.
For a kid-friendly, healthy meal, prepare your own fish sticks.
More Recipes:
- Alaska Pollock Jerk Tacos
- Alaska Pollock with Spicy Lemon Walnut Butter Sauce
- Fish with Creamy Leeks
References:
- Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI)
- How to Cook Pacific Cod and Pollock – about.com
- Five ways with… Pollock: Features: Good Food Channel
- Knowledge of Storing, Thawing & Cooking – Frozen Fish (Siam Canadian)
- Wild Alaska Seafood–Cook it Frozen
