Seafood is the star of the show when it comes to cooking up a delicious and healthy meal. Not only is fish an excellent, low-fat protein source, it is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids that boost your brain function and heart health.
Whether you buy a whole fish or frozen fish fillets, what is the best method of preparation?
What are the differences, and what nutritious value does each have? Before you run off and order fish online in Singapore, first examine the different cooking methods and which type of fish is ideal for each.
What are the differences between grilled, steamed and breaded fish?
Grilled fish
Grilled fish is made by grilling the fish over a flame. Whether you buy a whole fish or use frozen fish fillets, the meat is usually marinated before it is grilled to enhance the flavour and tenderise it.
Allowing the fish to sit in the marinade for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking will help the fish absorb the flavours of the marinade and enhance the flavour of the fish. Fish can be grilled in an outdoor grill, indoor grill pan or barbeque pit.
Grilling your fish is one of the healthiest cooking methods, not to mention delicious too. Not only does the high heat create a nice char on the outside, but it also helps to seal in the juices, resulting in a moist and tender fillet. In addition, grilling fish instead of frying it can reduce the amount of unhealthy fat consumed.
Steamed fish
Steaming is a cooking technique that uses moist heat to prepare food. This type of preparation typically involves placing the food inside a pot or other container above water and letting it cook for a set amount of time. The container traps heat much like an oven, and moisture from steam condenses onto what you're preparing.
Another way is to put the fish elevated in a pot with some water and then put the pot on the stove to heat the water yet keep the hot air in. For the lazy or time-sensitive folks, you can also use a microwave to steam fish. A few minutes, and your perfectly steamed fish will be done.
Steaming fish is another healthy way of preparing fish without using unhealthy oils. The meat retains the most nutrients because it cooks the food using just water or broth.
Breaded fish
Breaded fish is delicious! After all, fish and chips is a classic dish as old as time.
There are many ways to bread fish, but one of the simplest is to use flour, salt, pepper, and eggs. First, mix the flour, salt, and pepper together in a bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Dip the fish in the eggs, then coat it in the flour mixture. Then, either bake or deep-fry the battered fish.
If you are pressed for time or feeling lazy, you can always buy frozen breaded fish fillets to save yourself the effort. And no, contrary to popular belief, frozen seafood is not less healthy or flavourful than their fresh counterparts — those are just myths! However, breaded fish can be a bit more calorie-dense, so be mindful of how much you consume.
What type of fish should you choose for each preparation method?
For grilling:
Salmon, trout, and tilapia are good fishes to grill because they are firm, won’t fall into pieces, and have a wonderful flavour.
For steaming:
The best type of fish to steam is white fish, a type of fish that has a mild flavor and a firm texture. Some types of whitefish include cod, halibut, haddock, sea bass and flounder.
For deep-frying/baking:
There are many types of fish that can be breaded, deep-fried or baked. Some of the most popular types include cod, tilapia, salmon, and trout.
Shop Whole Frozen Fish, Fish Fillets & Breaded Fish Online
Whether you want to buy whole fishes or frozen breaded fish fillets, our selection of fish products is sure to have something to meet all your fishy needs.
Order your fish online at All Big Frozen Food and enjoy free delivery everywhere in Singapore (min. Spend $60) for your seafood fix.