We often assume that “fresh” fish from the seafood counter is the highest quality option. However, that “fresh” fish has often been on a long journey. It may have been previously frozen and thawed. In many cases, the best, most flavorful, and safest fish you can buy is actually in the freezer aisle. These six types of frozen fish products often outshine their “fresh” counterparts because they lock in quality right at the source.
1. Flash-Frozen Wild Salmon
Wild salmon has a short peak season. Most of the “fresh” wild salmon you see year-round was previously frozen. High-quality brands will catch the salmon during its peak season. They then flash-freeze it directly on the boat within minutes. This process locks in the fish’s flavor and texture at its absolute best. A good frozen wild salmon fillet is often superior to a “fresh” one that has traveled for days.
2. Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) Shrimp
“IQF” means that each piece of shrimp was frozen individually, not in a large block. This prevents the shrimp from clumping together. It also helps to preserve their delicate texture. Most “fresh” shrimp at the counter were also previously frozen. Buying a bag of high-quality, IQF frozen shrimp gives you more control. You can thaw exactly what you need, ensuring better quality.
3. Frozen Tuna Steaks
Sushi-grade tuna must be handled with extreme care to ensure it is safe for raw consumption. The best practice is to freeze it at a very low temperature. This kills any potential parasites. Frozen tuna steaks that are specifically labeled as “sushi-grade” or “sashimi-grade” have undergone this process. They are often a safer and higher-quality choice than a “fresh” piece of tuna whose history you do not know.
4. Frozen Cod and Haddock Fillets
White fish, such as cod and haddock, are staples for fish and chips or simple baked dishes. Like salmon, these fish are often caught in large quantities far out at sea. The fish that is immediately processed and frozen on the factory ships often retains a better texture and flavor. It avoids the degradation that can happen during the long trip back to shore for the “fresh” market.
5. Frozen Bay Scallops
Bay scallops are small and delicate. They can easily get damaged during shipping and handling. Buying high-quality, frozen bay scallops ensures that they retain their sweet flavor and tender texture. The “fresh” scallops you see at the counter may have lost a lot of their moisture. They may also have been treated with phosphates to plump them up.
6. Kirkland Signature Frozen Fish
Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand has a reputation for high quality across the board. Their frozen fish selection is no exception. Products like their frozen Atlantic Salmon fillets are often praised for their excellent flavor and texture. They frequently beat out the “fresh” options from regular supermarkets in blind taste tests. Costco uses its buying power to source high-quality, well-processed frozen fish.
A Better Option
The freezer aisle is no longer just a place for cheap fish sticks. It is now home to some of the highest-quality seafood available. Modern flash-freezing technology allows producers to capture a fish’s peak freshness. This often results in a product that is superior in taste, texture, and safety compared to the “fresh” options at the counter. The key is to look for high-quality brands that use these advanced freezing techniques.
Have you ever found that frozen fish tastes better than fresh? What is your favorite type of frozen seafood to buy? Let us know!
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