Tips to recognize
According to the advice of famous Indian chef Ananya Banerjee, currently working at The Spice Route of The Imperial Hotel in New Delhi, there are some simple but effective tips to identify fresh fish and common mistakes when buying fish.
Color: Fresh fish is often bright, transparent and shows no signs of discoloration. Fresh fish will have its natural skin color, for example salmon is bright orange, catfish is turbid. If the fish is pale or yellow, it may be a sign that the fish are no longer fresh.
Clear and clear fish eyes: One of the most obvious signs to know if fish is fresh or not is the ankle. Fresh fish must have clear, shiny eyes. If the ankle is bulging,acting or discolored, the fish may have eels.
Firm and elastic fish meat: When you lightly press the fish meat, if the fish is fresh, the meat will be elasticated immediately, without leaving any traces. Fresh fish meat must be firm and not mushy. If you press it but leave a deep hole, it is a sign that the fish are no longer fresh.
Bring fresh or pink fish: When you lift the fish lid, you will see fresh red or pink, without oil or signs of discoloration. Bringing brown, gray fish or oily fish is a sign of fish being damaged or spoiled.
Light fish smell: The smell of fresh fish often has a characteristic smell, slightly fishy but not too strong. If the fish has a sour, fishy smell like amoniac or rot, it is a clear sign that the fish has eaten.
Scalp and skin: Fresh fish has shiny skin, no wrinkles and the scales are firmly attached to the fish's body. If the scales are easily peeled or the skin of the fish shows signs of wrinkles, the fish may have been left for a long time.
Common mistakes to avoid
According to Banerjee, a common mistake that many people make is thinking that fish always has a fishy smell. However, a strong, unpleasant smell is a sign that the fish is damaged, not the mild fishy smell typical of fresh fish.
Consumers should pay attention to checking the fresh fish indicators instead of just trusting the packaging when buying pre-cut or pre-packaged fish. Fresh fish must have a certain moisture, shiny color and no signs of dryness or dullness. In addition, fish must be properly preserved, usually on clean rocks, drain well and must not be left in brackish water," Ms. Ananya Banerjee noted.
With these simple tips, you can completely recognize whether fresh fish or not, thereby choosing to buy quality products for your meals. These not only help you enjoy delicious dishes but also protect the health of yourself and your family.
