Forget the pre packaged stuff that comes in a tightly sealed container with an expiration date. I am talking about freshly smoked (on the same day) fish.
Yummy, mouth watering, to die for if you ask me.
So how do I prep this? I DON’T!
I go to our favorite local fish house, The Fishery in PB and buy it!
My schedule is crazy enough as it is. I don’t think fitting in a “fish smoking” session is very feasible or practical. Plus, I don’t need to learn to make the fish any healthier than it already is. The Fishery does an amazing job. The fish is fresh, not farmed which is a must. Stay away from farmed fish! I’ll hit that topic later in its own blog post.
I cannot stand greasy fish! I know the oils are good for you but they’re also super messy. The Fishery wraps their fish neatly and in small portions making it easy for me to eat one on the road or when I’m running out the door at home without ruining my clothes.
Fish is a lean protein. One of the many benefits to smoking fish is that there is a relatively high amount of protein in the fish which are usually low in saturated fat. The omega 3’s and fatty acids in the fish are also extremely healthy.
SO are there any disadvantages to eating smoked fish?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Studies have found that the process of smoking your fish produces compounds called PAHs, which have been found to be carcinogenic. Smoked salmon and trout seem to have the lowest levels of PAHs. Oh goody because my favorite is tuna, ARGH!
HOLD ON… we can’t simply blame smoked fish for carcinogenic compounds! PAHs can be found in cereal grains, cooking oils, cigarettes and other foods. We are also exposed to them in the air we breathe and the water we drink. So obviously PAHs are not new to our bodies.
THE GOOD NEWS? This blog is about everything in moderation. If you’re a smoker and like to drink city tap water, I’d say hold off on the smoked fish. But if you’re a relatively healthy individual who once in a while has a strong craving for some smoked fish (like me) then I say go for it. The benefits in my mind far outweigh the negatives.
Not to mention smoked fish can be eaten at every occasion. Parties, dinner parties, in the car, at work… formal and informal… smoked fish is a super simple, great protein that offers us some pretty nice health benefits. Think HOLIDAY PARTIES!
So next time you’re out and about in San Diego, head to The Fishery in PB for some amazing smoked fish. I’ve pictured above a specialty smoked albacore of theirs with jalapeños placed in the center for a spicy kick. If you’re out of the area, I suggest you skip the Costco brand of farmed, smoked salmon and google or bing a few fresh fish places that offer the healthiest version of a smoked fish.
Happy smoked-fishing!
xx Shanna
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