Seafood is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal, offering a wealth of flavours and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, selecting and preparing seafood can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you choose and cook various types of seafood to perfection.

How to Select Seafood 

Freshness is Key:

Fish: Look for bright, clear eyes, shiny skin, and a fresh, ocean-like smell. The flesh should be firm and spring back when touched.

Shellfish: Choose live shellfish that close tightly when tapped. For already cleaned shellfish, look for a mild, briny scent and avoid any with a strong, fishy odour.

Seasonality:

Choose seafood that’s in season for the best quality and flavour. This also supports local fisheries and promotes sustainability. Our fishmongers are on hand to make recommendations on the best in season.

How to Prepare Seafood

Cleaning and Prepping:

Fish: Rinse under cold water, pat dry, and remove scales if necessary. Fillet or cut as needed.

Shellfish: Scrub shells of clams, mussels, and oysters. Remove the beard from mussels and discard any that remain open after tapping

Cooking Techniques:

Grilling: Marinate or brush with oil, and cook over medium-high heat until slightly charred and just cooked through.

Baking: Perfect for whole fish or fillets. Season with herbs, lemon, and olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Sautéing: Great for quick-cooking fish and shellfish like scallops or shrimp. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat, add seafood, and cook until golden and just opaque.

Steaming: Ideal for delicate fish and shellfish like clams and mussels. Place in a steamer basket over simmering water, cover, and cook until the shells open or the flesh is tender.

Flavour Pairings:

Citrus: Lemon, lime, and orange zest and juice enhance the freshness of seafood

Herbs: Dill, parsley, basil, and coriander complement the delicate flavours

Aromatics: Garlic, shallots, and ginger provide a savoury backbone

Selecting and preparing seafood can be a delightful culinary adventure. By choosing fresh, sustainable options and using proper preparation techniques, you can create delicious seafood dishes that are sure to impress. Pop into our Fishmongers in Ballater and discuss the fresh options available. All of our fish can be prepared ready to cook at home.