Those who prefer the taste of fresh fish may be surprised to learn that most of the seafood available in stores is frozen, a trend driven by advances in flash-freezing techniques that can preserve the flavor and texture of a variety of species. As chefs have discovered, using Frozen Fish Types not only improves their bottom lines by saving on energy and refrigeration costs but also allows them to offer a wider range of dishes during certain species’ off-seasons and provides an environmentally friendly alternative to discarding unsold fish.

The quality of frozen fish depends on the freezing process and storage conditions. Fish that is “flash frozen” during harvest has small ice crystals that, unlike large ones, do not rupture the muscle tissue cells and thus do not cause leakage upon thawing. The absence of any unpleasant odor and the firm, resilient flesh of flash-frozen fish are additional qualities to look for.

Dive into Variety: Exploring Different Frozen Fish Types for Your Table

Frozen fish that is stored at low temperatures for a prolonged time develops a dry, straw-like texture and poor flavor known as freezer burn, which is best avoided. Fish that has not been properly deep frozen on loading (the core temperature must sound like wood when struck) or that is showing signs of depreciation (such as frost) should be rejected before loading.

Some frozen fish products come coated in breadcrumbs or batter and are popular in the freezer section of supermarkets, including cod fillets and battered haddock. These alternatives provide a satisfying crunch for those who enjoy the contrast between juicy fish and a crispy coating.