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Seafood is a true delicacy, celebrated worldwide for its unique flavours, nutritional value, and versatility in the kitchen. It often graces our tables during festive seasons but tends to be overlooked the rest of the year. Despite the variety of seafood available, its preparation can intimidate even the most seasoned cooks. Who hasn’t worried about ruining a beautiful piece of fish or turning calamari into "rubber"? Whether you’re a novice or a culinary enthusiast, we’ve gathered five essential tips to help you master—and even excel in—preparing fish and seafood.
Cooking is the most critical step in preparing seafood, and improper cooking can ruin its delicate texture. Here are the key methods you need to know:
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Poaching is ideal for preserving the tenderness of seafood such as shrimp, scallops, langoustines, or mussels. Start by preparing a pot of water or broth flavoured with aromatic herbs (thyme, bay leaves), spices (peppercorns, coriander), or even a slice of lemon to enhance their natural flavours. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Add your seafood and let it cook gently for a few minutes until it turns opaque and tender. This method also works well for shellfish, immersing them directly in the broth for a uniform, flavourful result.
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Grilling is perfect for crustaceans like prawns or scallops. Brush them with olive oil and lightly season before placing them on a hot grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side for a juicy result.
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Steaming is a gentle, healthy method particularly suited for seafood such as mussels, clams, shrimp, and scallops. It’s also perfect for whole fish or delicate fillets. Using a steamer basket allows the seafood to cook in its own moisture, preserving its essential nutrients while maintaining its natural flavors and texture.
Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme, spices like fennel seeds, or even a splash of dry white wine to the steaming liquid. For even cooking, arrange the seafood in the basket without overlapping, cover, and steam over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through and slightly open for shellfish.
Pro Tip: Serve steamed seafood with a light sauce, such as a lemon vinaigrette or homemade mayonnaise, to elevate its refined taste without overpowering it.
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Oven roasting is a versatile and convenient method for preparing a variety of seafood, including baked oysters—a great alternative to raw. This technique develops rich flavors through even, gentle cooking while allowing creative seasoning.
Place your seafood on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for consistent cooking. Add fresh herbs, drizzle with olive oil, and optionally season with smoked paprika or mild chili for a touch of spice.
Bake at 390°F (200°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the seafood’s thickness and type. For example, shrimp will take around 10 minutes to turn pink and firm, while thicker scallops may need a few extra minutes.
Pro Tip: For a sophisticated touch, sprinkle with a mixture of breadcrumbs, melted butter, and lemon zest before baking. This adds a crispy texture and irresistible citrus aroma.
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Simple and quick, sautéing is an excellent method for shrimp and scallops. Heat a pan with a bit of oil or butter. Sear the seafood over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, achieving a golden, caramelized exterior.
Pro Tip: Allow your seafood to rest for a few moments after cooking to let the juices redistribute evenly.
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While seafood boasts natural, delicate flavours, proper seasoning can elevate it:
Pro Tip: Remember, good seasoning should enhance (not mask) the natural taste of seafood.
Even the best seafood can be ruined by simple mistakes. Here’s what to avoid:
Fun Fact: Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) seafood retains its texture and freshness better than poorly stored "fresh" products. This is true for the seafood we offer at East Angus Grocery.
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Pair your seafood with simple sides that let it shine:
Pro Tip: Seafood pairs exceptionally well with fresh pasta or creamy risottos for a heartier meal.
Freshness is key to successful seafood dishes:
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With these five foolproof tips, mastering seafood preparation becomes effortless. From selecting the freshest catch to perfectly cooking and pairing your dishes, you can now showcase these oceanic delights at every meal. Try these tips today and enjoy flavourful, perfectly executed seafood dishes!
Did You Know? Canadians consume over 20 kilograms of seafood per person annually, highlighting its popularity and central role in the national diet.
What are the benefits of your service?
The advantages of our service lie in the superior quality of our local products, the convenience of home delivery, the personalized assistance of our advisors, the long shelf life of our frozen products, and our commitment to providing products free of antibiotics, growth hormones, and preservatives, thus ensuring your satisfaction and well-being.
How to place an order?
Complete the form abow to be contacted by one of our advisors. Experience our service with a personalized dietary assessment, followed by building a tailored order that reflects your preferences. Finally, receive your products on your desired date.
What product guarantees do you offer?
Our products come with an 18-month taste guarantee after delivery. We also guarantee all our vacuum-sealed packaging. One goal, your satisfaction!
Where do your products come from?
All of our products* are sourced from local producers across Canada, ensuring freshness, quality, and supporting our local communities. Additionally, they are all free from antibiotics, growth hormones, and preservatives.
*Excluding exotic products, of course.
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