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How Do You Cook Fish Without the Stink?

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Gourmandize

There are so many delicious recipes in the world. From oven-baked salmon to grilled sea bass, it's such a versatile food. Fish is also packed with  omega-3 fatty acids which are good for our brain as they help with cognative behavior. These are essential fats, but our bodies can't make enough alone. This is why it's important to get enough via our food. 

But even the freshest cut of fish can give off an unforgiveable whiff once it's been cooked! And once the smell gets out, it's pretty hard to get rid of. Read on if you want to learn our fave tips and tricks on how to minimize the stink!

Purchase the Freshest Fish Possible

Purchase the Freshest Fish Possible

The fresher the fish, the less fishy it should smell. As odd as it sounds, fish shouldn't smell like the sea and if it does, it's going to smell even more so once it's been cooked.

But how do you know you're getting the catch of the day? Well, it's all in the eyes. The eyes of the fish should not be cloudy or blood shot, but crystal clear. The fish should also be firm to touch, and bounce back a little when pressed. And under no circumstance should the fish be slimy!

Bake the Fish

Bake the Fish

One useful trick that can reduce unwanted smells, is baking your fish in parchment paper or aluminum foil. This trick works both in the oven and on the grill. If you're grilling the fish outside, it's even better, as any potential smells won't get trapped in the house!

Cut off a piece of paper or foil, and place the fillet in the center. There should be approx. one inch between the sides of the fish and the edges of the paper or foil.

You can top the fish with anything you like; your fave veggies, a simple lick of butter, a slice of lemon, or simply a pinch of salt and pepper. Seal the paper or foil by folding the edges. It should make a tight parcel and will keep any smells under wraps while the fish is cooking! If you want your fish well-done, bake at 400°F for 10 mins.

Poach the Fish

Poach the Fish

If you cook a fish in water, not only will it remain soft and tender, but the smell will stay entirely in the bath! You can also use milk, which gives the fish a creamy taste once it's cooked, or broth for more flavor.

Simply bring a medium-sized pot of liquid to a simmer (you can also season the cooking liquid however you want), and slip the fish fillets in. Keep the pot on a low-heat so that the liquid simmers and the fish is flaky. By that point, it should be well cooked through and ready to enjoy. 

Other Tips and Tricks

Other Tips and Tricks

Unfortunately, no matter what you do, your house will likely have a little fishy hint. The methods above should help diminish any odors, but if not, the following tips might help too:

  • Allow the fish to sit in milk for 20 mins. as this will neutrilize any nasties that might be on its skin. After, rinse the fish with cold tap water.
  • Keep the fish in its original packaging until you're ready to cook it. It's also a good idea to keep a little baking soda in your fridge while storing the fish, as this can absorb any unwanted smells. Activated charcoal also works!
  • A scented candle is good for cooking smells. If you want to opt for one that will expel fishy smells, opt for a citrusy candle such as lemon. The sharp scents can often overpower strong kitchen odors such as fish and garlic.
  • Slice a citrus fruit, such as lemon, and simmer for 20 mins. You can also put the slices in a bowl of water and microwave for 7 mins. This should help reduce any unwanted fishy whiffs!

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Ingredients

  • 2 large water or soda bottles (empty)
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 sticks butter
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tbsp cocoa powder

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Ready 2 large plastic bottles, cleaned and dried.
  3. Add 1 cup of flour to each bottle.
  4. Add 1/2 cup of sugar to each.
  5. Melt butter, then add equal halves to each bottle.
  6. Add 6 eggs, 3 in each.
  7. Add 1/2 tbsp of baking powder to each.
  8. Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to each.
  9. Shake the bottles thoroughly until the contents are well mixed.
  10. In one of the bottles only, add the cocoa powder.
  11. Beginning with the cocoa powder mixture, add a dolop of batter to the center of a circular
  12. baking tin. Do the same with the other mixture, placing the dolop directly in the center of the previous one.
  13. Continue with alternating additions of each mixture until all batter is used and the tin is full.
  14. Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
  15. Serve and enjoy!

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