As fish go, Pollock has often only been considered an economical choice is a sea of high-end alternatives. Featured in recipes like Poor Man’s Lobster, which calls for your to boil it in salted water, sprinkle it with vinegar and then boil it again before serving it with melted butter, just like the lobster it isn’t.
However, Pollock recipes are resurfacing in the droves with a gourmet twist thanks to the economic crisis and ecological consciousness. With classic recipes like fish and chips going green and gourmet, requiring top grade sustainable fish, groundnut oil, micro brewed beer batter, and “chips” baked and served with rosemary, Pollock recipes are getting a facelift too.
Gone are the days of pretending to be lobster, today Pollock can be added to a chowder or shine as the main star. With its fisheries tightly managed, its sea-friendly ranking high, and its flaky white meat, it is a choice that satisfies all parties (and pocketbooks), winning praises from consumers, chefs and ocean advocates alike.
Browsing cookbooks, online or in print, it is easy to find Pollock recipes that scan taste buds and ethnic influences. Marinated in a combination of soy sauce, rice wine, and a spice combo of fennel seeds, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, anise, and peppercorns, Five-Spiced Alaska Pollock is a recipe rich in flavor and a far from bland.
Lean and firm, low in fat and rich in protein, Pollock is also the basis of many heart-healthy recipes. Bake simply with a salt and pepper rub and serve with garlic and ginger sauteed broccoli florets. If you are looking for a breaded recipe, but don’t want to fry, crust your Pollock instead with potato and serve the fillets with a side of stewed tomatoes and baked macaroni and cheese.
Pollock can also replace Halibut, like in a summer fish taco, calling for fillets of Esther. Marinade fillets for a few hours in a combination of peach sauce, white wine, and canola oil before grilling. Break apart and serve in warm tortillas, along with a mixture of shredded cabbage, salsa and avocado, plus a touch of fat-free sour cream.
When looking for Pollock recipes, you should feel only as limited as your culinary preference. Quick dishes and gourmet spreads are all options with this versatile and delicate fish.
