Fish is an important protein source that should be on our tables in every season. However, the importance of consuming fish increases during winter months. Because fish strengthens our immune system, protects our bone health, and increases our resistance against winter illnesses like the common cold, thanks to its nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, selenium, and iodine. By consuming plenty of fish in December, you can spend the winter season healthier and more energetic.
İçindekiler
- 1 Which Fish Should Be Eaten in December?
- 2 What Should We Pay Attention to When Choosing Fish in December?
- 3 7 Delicious Fish Recipes That Brighten Your Tables in December
- 4 Benefits of Fish Consumption
- 5 Things to Consider When Consuming Fish in December
- 6 Frequently Asked Questions About Fish Consumption in December
- 7 Which fish are more abundant in December?
- 8 How are fish prices in December?
Which Fish Should Be Eaten in December?
Various types of fish can be found in our seas and at fish markets in December. Here are the most delicious fish you can prefer in December:
- Anchovy: Anchovy, the indispensable fish of winter months, is abundant in December and quite delicious. It can be cooked and consumed in different ways such as fried anchovy, steamed anchovy, and anchovy meatballs.
- Bonito: Bonito is a type of fish caught in autumn and winter months. December is the most delicious period for bonito. It can be consumed grilled, pan-fried, or baked.
- Bluefish: Bluefish is a fish caught especially in the Bosphorus of Istanbul and has very tasty meat. December is when bluefish is at its fattiest and most delicious. You can prefer it grilled or steamed.
- Small Bluefish: Small bluefish, which is the juvenile form of bluefish, is abundant at fish markets in December. Its meat is tasty and light. It can be cooked pan-fried or baked.
- Whiting: Whiting is known for its white meat and mild taste. It’s possible to find fresh whiting in December. It can be cooked steamed, pan-fried, or baked.
- Turbot: Turbot is one of the most valuable fish in our seas. Turbot fishing continues in December. You can prefer it grilled or steamed.
- Sea Bass: Sea bass is a type of fish that is both caught in the sea and farmed. It’s possible to find fresh sea bass in December. You can cook it grilled, pan-fried, or steamed.
What Should We Pay Attention to When Choosing Fish in December?
There are some important points you should pay attention to when choosing fish. Pay attention to these points to consume fresh and healthy fish:
- Eyes: The fish’s eyes should be bright and lively. Sunken and dull eyes indicate that the fish is not fresh.
- Scales: The fish’s scales should be shiny and firmly attached to its body. Fish whose scales easily fall off are not fresh.
- Gills: The fish’s gills should be red and vibrant in color. Brown or gray gills indicate that the fish is stale.
- Meat: The fish’s meat should be firm and elastic. When pressed with your finger, it shouldn’t form a dent and should immediately return to its original shape.
- Smell: Fresh fish should not have any smell other than the smell of the sea.
7 Delicious Fish Recipes That Brighten Your Tables in December
You can prepare delicious dishes with fresh and tasty fish you can find at markets in December. Here are 7 delicious recipes to inspire you:
1. Pan-Fried Anchovy
Pan-fried anchovy, a winter essential, is a practical and delicious dish. You can easily prepare it by coating anchovy in flour and frying in hot oil. You can serve it with plenty of lemon and greens.
2. Steamed Bonito
Steamed bonito is both healthy and delicious. You can cook bonito in a steamer with onions, carrots, potatoes, and spices. You can serve it with rice or bread.
3. Grilled Bluefish
The most delicious form of bluefish is when it’s grilled. You can grill bluefish after cleaning and seasoning it with salt and black pepper. You can serve it with lemon slices and arugula salad.
4. Baked Small Bluefish
Baked small bluefish is a practical and delicious dish. You can bake small bluefish after cleaning and seasoning it with lemon, onion, and spices. You can serve it with french fries or rice.
5. Steamed Whiting
Steamed whiting is a light and healthy dish. You can cook whiting in a steamer with onions, carrots, and bay leaf. You can serve it with rice or bread.
6. Pan-Fried Turbot
Pan-fried turbot is a delicious dish you can prefer for special occasions. Slice the turbot, coat it in flour, and fry in hot oil. You can serve it with lemon slices and greens.
7. Baked Sea Bass
Baked sea bass is both practical and elegant. You can bake sea bass after cleaning and seasoning it with lemon, garlic, and spices. You can serve it with vegetable garnish and rice.
Benefits of Fish Consumption
Fish is a food that has many benefits for our health. Here are the main benefits of consuming fish:
- Protects Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids in fish regulate heart rhythm, lower blood pressure, and reduce bad cholesterol. Thus, it reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Improves Brain Functions: Omega-3 fatty acids support brain development and functions. It strengthens memory, increases learning ability, and reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Protects Eye Health: DHA in fish is an important fatty acid for eye health. It reduces the risk of eye diseases such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
- Strengthens Immune System: Fish contains nutrients that strengthen the immune system such as vitamin D, selenium, and zinc. It increases body resistance against cold, flu, and infections.
- Supports Bone Health: Fish is rich in vitamin D and calcium. Thus, it helps strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Reduces Depression Risk: Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Improves Skin Health: Fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which are important for skin health. It maintains skin moisture balance, reduces wrinkles, and makes it look younger.
Things to Consider When Consuming Fish in December
There are some points you should pay attention to when consuming fish:
- Freshness: Pay attention to freshness when choosing fish. Fresh fish should have bright scales, lively eyes, and red gills.
- Cooking Method: It’s important to cook fish with the right method. Overcooked fish can lose its nutritional value and become dry.
- Allergy: If you have a fish allergy, consult your doctor before consuming fish.
- Mercury: Some fish species may contain high levels of mercury. Consumption of fish with high mercury content should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fish Consumption in December
Section 1: Curiosities About Fish Consumption in December
Which fish are more abundant in December?
In December, fish such as anchovy, bonito, bluefish, small bluefish, and whiting are more abundant and delicious. These fish are caught plenty during winter months and can be found fresh at markets.
How are fish prices in December?
Fish prices in December can vary depending on the fish species, amount caught, and weather conditions. Generally, abundant fish like anchovy are more affordable, while less abundant fish like bluefish and turbot can be more expensive.
References
- Büyükakın, O., & Gültepe, P. (2020). Aquaculture and Consumption in Turkey. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 13(2), 185-194. doi:10.18016/tarimbilimleri.722418
- Çağlak, E., & Özdemir, N. (2019). Effects of Fish Consumption on Human Health. Food Technologies Electronic Journal, 4(2), 101-112.
- Erkan, N., & Tokur, B. (2018). Fisheries Sector in Turkey and Its Economic Importance. Economics and Social Sciences Journal, 3(2), 123-138.
- Gül, S., & Özer, İ. (2021). Effects of Fish Oil on Health. Nutrition and Diet Journal, 40(1), 35-42.
- Türkmen, M., & Şahin, A. (2022). Fish Consumption and Chronic Diseases. Health Sciences Journal, 11(1), 87-95.
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