From Fish Sticks to Sushi Rolls - Learn About the Culinary Diversity of Pollock

Traditionally the breaded goodness inside fish sticks and fish and chips has been Atlantic cod, but due to the declining health of the fish in these waters attention has shifted to the Pacific Ocean for its finned tastiness. Cousin to the Atlantic cod is the Pacific Alaska pollock. The quickness in maturation and high reproduction rates make pollock a sustainable and economical choice. The demand for fish similar to cod persists and the pollock population can withstand the fishing pressure as well as maintain the well being of their surrounding environment. Fisherman use mid-water trawls to catch pollock, which inflict little harm on surrounding sea life and bottom habitats.

Along with its sustainability, Pacific Alaska pollock possess a white, mild, low fat meat that can be incorporated into meals in a number of ways. When buying pollock it is best to buy the fillets frozen since the fish comes from far off waters. Only if the market can guarantee that the fish has never been frozen before should you buy unfrozen fillets, but buying them frozen is the safest bet. Once you have acquired the tasty meat, try out one of the many forms of preparation that suit pollock the best. Frying is a great way to cook pollock, whether it be fish sticks or fish and chips, the light, mild flavor of pollock is perfect for deep frying.

It is best to avoid trying to broil Pacific Alaska pollock since it is a very delicate process requiring extreme care because the slightest misjudgment can easily result in dried out fillets. Pollock can also be used as imitation crab, and often is a part of any California roll in mid-range sushi restaurants. If you are looking to make sushi for dinner but do not quite have the cash to spring for real king or snow crab, pollock has a similar enough flavor to achieve the desired effect. Most importantly you must not consume this fish raw. Pollock can sometimes play host to parasitic worms that can set up house in you if you eat the fish raw. However, once the fish is cooked the worms become harmless and are no longer something to be concerned about. From deep fried to being snuggly rolled with some seaweed, Pacific Alaska pollock is a versatile, tasty, and sustainable choice of fish for any dinner table.

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