Skrei, one of the world’s most sought-after seasonal seafood delicacies, is back in season and available to fish and chip operators until April.
This pearly white cod is only available for the first few months of the year when it reaches the shores of northern Norway after a monumental 1,000km journey south from the depths of the icy Barents Sea.
Literally translated, the Viking name ‘skrei’ means ‘traveller’, and by the time it arrives in Norway, skrei is muscular with a succulent texture, and a distinctive flavour which comes from the lean flesh created by the lengthy swim across the Atlantic.
Delicious pan-fried or lightly steamed, skrei also lends itself well to being coated.
Nutrient-rich, just one portion of skrei satisfies the recommended daily amount of omega-3, as well as vitamins A and B12, which are linked to a strong immune system, good brain and reproductive health. Skrei also contains selenium and iodine, and is a low-calorie, high protein choice.
With the Northeast Arctic cod stock being one of the largest in the world, skrei is also a highly sustainable seafood option, which is of utmost importance to Norway as a responsible seafood nation.
Victoria Braathen, UK director for the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), comments: “Cod has always been one of the UK’s top species, particularly for the nation’s favourite dish of fish and chips. Over the years it’s been fantastic to see quality-labelled skrei making an appearance on more and more specials boards in fish and chip outlets across the country.
“These days people are much more interested in the provenance of their food – and it’s our job, along with fish and chip shop owners and others in the industry, to tell customers where their fish suppers have come from and how. Even in the current climate, it is important to remember the importance of sourcing sustainably; and by choosing skrei you can be confident you are choosing a top quality, sustainable seafood.”
To find out more about Norwegian whitefish, including skrei and its sustainability credentials, visit www.seafoodfromnorway.co.uk