How To Choose Affordable and Fresh Seafood for Your Next Dinner Gathering
Are you planning a dinner gathering with your friends or family and want to serve fresh and affordable seafood? With so many options available, it can be daunting to know what to look for when buying seafood. In this post, we’ll share some tips on how to choose the best seafood that is both affordable and fresh.
Know Your Seafood Seasons
The first thing to keep in mind is that seafood has seasons just like fruits and vegetables. Understanding the seasons of your favorite seafood can save you both money and disappointment. For example, shrimp is usually less expensive during the winter season as it is less in demand, while oysters are usually less expensive in the summer.
Choose the Right Place to Buy Seafood
The second thing to consider is where you buy your seafood. Buying seafood from a reputable fishmonger or grocery store with a high turnover ensures the seafood is fresh. Check the labels of packaged seafood to ensure they are not expired, never purchase old seafood. Farmer markets that source from fishermen straight from the sea can also be a good option for fresh seafood.
Look for Locally Sourced Seafood
When possible, purchase seafood that is locally sourced. It is a more sustainable option and ensures that the seafood is fresh, as it does not have to travel far. Plus, it supports local farmers and the community.
Choose Frozen over Thawed Seafood
Purchasing frozen seafood is often more affordable than fresh seafood, and contrary to popular belief, it does not sacrifice the quality of taste. Frozen seafood is generally frozen at the peak of freshness, which means it is just as nutritious and delicious as fresh seafood. Avoid purchasing thawed seafood which could have been previously frozen and may have compromised quality.
Smell, Sight, and Touch to Check Quality
While purchasing seafood, it’s essential to check the quality of seafood you’re considering. The first signs of quality are smell, sight and touch. The seafood should have a fresh and mild sea smell. The eyes of the fish should be clear and bulging, not sunken. The texture should not be slimy, but firm and bouncy. If it doesn’t feel firm, it may not be fresh.
Conclusion
In conclusion, purchasing affordable and fresh seafood for your next dinner gathering is indeed doable. Keeping the aforementioned tips in mind while shopping ensures that you're getting the best seafood possible. Do your research, know your seasons, choose the right place, look for locally sourced and frozen alternatives, and check for quality with your senses. Happy seafood shopping!