Aspen Recipe Seafood

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fish and seafood

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Fish and Seafood The interest in light, healthy eating has created a renewed interest in eating fish and other seafood. Seafood is an excellent source of protein and is low in fat and calories. Even the fattiest fish, mackerel, is only 12 percent fat. Cod is the leanest and has a fat content so low it must be measured in a fraction of one percent. As long as fat and calorie counts aren’t increased by rich sauces or excess oil from frying, seafood should be a regular part of light, healthy eating. In addition to terrific taste and wholesomeness, researchers have found an added bonus in fish. They’ve discovered a link between the prevention of heart disease and the special oils in certain kinds of fish, called omega-3 fatty acids. It is believed that these fish oils can help lower blood cholesterol and reduce the tendency of circulating blood to form clots. Fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids include tuna, salmon, trout, sardines, swordfish, herring and mackerel. Among shell fish, mussels, oysters and scallops contain generous amounts of these healthful oils. Choosing Fish in the Market Examine fish carefully before you buy. There are several things to look for. Fresh fish will have bright, clear, bulging eyes. If the eyes are dull, cloudy or sunken, the fish is not fresh. Look for red gills. As the fish deteriorates, gills will fade to pink, then turn gray and finally brownish-green. Fresh fish has firm flesh, a stiff body and tightly attached scales. The surface should be smooth with no slimy feel. When choosing fish fillets, rely on your sense of smell. As with whole fish, fresh fillets will have a fresh briny odor, without a strong fishy odor. Fish fillets should also be moist, but not slimy, and show no traces of browning or drying around the edges. To keep fish fresh when you get it home, place ice in two self-sealing plastic bags. Lay one of the bags flat on a plate, top with the fish, wrapped in plastic film, and cover fish with the remaining bag of ice. This will keep the fish well chilled without freezing. Use within a day of purchase. Fat Content Varies While fish is generally considered a low-fat protein source, fat content does vary. u Very low in fat (less than 2 percent) Cod, Halibut, Rockfish, Sea Bass u

Low in fat (2 to 5 percent)

Bluefish, Catfish, Flounder, Haddock, Red Snapper, Shark, Sole, Turbot

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Moderately high in fat Albacore Tuna, Mullet, Pompano, (6 to 10 percent) Salmon, Swordfish, Trout

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High in fat (more than 10 percent)

Mackerel, Shad, Shad Roe


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