Delicious alternatives: Try hoki for easy Christmas fish
This Christmas Eve dish may have little in common with Greece, but that doesn't change the fact that it has been extremely popular for years. And no one is masking the unpleasant smell of carp with the intense taste of vegetables anymore. There's no need for that. You can make fish in Greek style with any fillets. However, it's worth choosing those that don't have even small bones and are juicy and delicate in taste after frying.
The trend for Christmas Eve dishes is changing. Alongside the traditional beet soup with dumplings, mushroom or fish soup also appears on many tables. Fried carp is replaced by baked halibut, and herring comes in many different versions—not just in oil or cream. In many homes, fish in Greek style remains the staple. This dish, if prepared properly, will appeal even to picky palates.
What to choose for Greek style fish – Cod, pollock, or perhaps hoki?
A common choice for Greek-style fish is cod, which is easy to find in stores before Christmas. This classic species has a mild taste and fairly firm fibers. However, such a texture requires proper preparation. Often, after frying or baking in the oven, cod becomes dry.
Pollock is the most budget-friendly option. It is cheaper than hoki and cod. The meat is delicate after frying, but it has a pronounced taste. Not everyone appreciates this in Greek style fish.
Hoki is considered the best choice due to its lean, delicate meat and small number of bones. It's hard to find bones in the fillets. It's also inexpensive, with a portion weighing about 0.7 lbs costing about $2.50.
What should you pay attention to when buying fish for Christmas Eve?
If you decide to buy fresh fillets, check whether they are really fresh or have already been thawed. This is marked on the label. Pay attention to the color of the meat and the coating. Fresh fish is not covered with unpleasant slime, and its smell should be neutral.
Sometimes a better option is to buy frozen fish. However, even in this case, it's worth being vigilant. Too much snow in the package may indicate that the fish was thawed during transport. Pay attention not only to the expiration date but also to the packaging's tightness and any discoloration on the fillets.
Why is it worth choosing hoki for Greek style fish?
Amid the holiday expenses, it's worth opting for fish that has tasty and delicate meat, while also being affordable. Hoki perfectly meets these criteria.
This fish, belonging to the hake family, is most often caught in the Pacific by fishermen from Australia. It is a source of high-quality protein and B vitamins. It contains healthy omega-3 fats, which positively affect the circulatory system and help reduce cholesterol levels. Not only does it have a small amount of bones, but it also has a low calorie count. In 3.5 oz of raw fish, there are just 70-80 kcal. Of course, this number changes depending on how the meat is prepared.
