Hoki takes centre stage as emerging favourite for Christmas eve
This Christmas Eve dish may not have much in common with Greece, but that hasn't stopped it from being a favourite for years. There's no longer a need to mask the unpleasant smell of carp with the strong flavours of vegetables. You can make fish in Greek style with any fillets. However, it's best to choose those without any bones that are juicy and have a delicate flavour after frying.
The trend for Christmas Eve dishes is evolving. Alongside the traditional beet soup with dumplings, mushroom or fish soup is also making appearances on many tables. Fried carp is being replaced by baked halibut. Herring is offered in many variations, not just in oil or cream. In many homes, fish in Greek style remains a staple. When prepared properly, this dish appeals even to picky eaters.
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. It is a classic species with a mild taste and fairly firm texture. However, its texture requires proper preparation. Often after frying or baking, cod becomes dry.
Pollock is the most budget-friendly option. It is cheaper than hoki and cod. After frying, the meat is delicate but has a pronounced taste, which not everyone appreciates in Greek-style fish.
Hoki is considered the best choice due to its lean, delicate meat and small number of bones. The fillets are nearly bone-free. It is also inexpensive, with a portion weighing about 320 grams costing about 3.50 Canadian dollars.
What should you pay attention to when buying fish for Christmas Eve?
If you decide to buy fresh fillets, check whether they are truly fresh or have been previously thawed. This will be indicated on the label. Pay attention to the colour of the meat and its coating. Fresh fish should not have an unpleasant slime on it, and its smell should be neutral.
Sometimes, buying frozen fish is a better option. However, vigilance is still necessary. Too much ice in the package may indicate that the fish was thawed during transport. Check the expiration date, the tightness of the packaging, and any discolouration on the fillets.
Why is it worth choosing hoki for Greek style fish?
Amid the holiday expenses, it's wise to opt for fish that's both tasty and affordable. Hoki perfectly fits these criteria.
This fish, belonging to the hake family, is commonly caught in the Pacific by Australian fishermen. It's a source of high-quality protein and B vitamins. It contains healthy omega-3 fats, which benefit the circulatory system and help reduce cholesterol levels. It not only has a few bones but also a low-calorie count. In 100 grams of raw fish, there are just 70-80 kcal. Of course, this number changes depending on how the meat is prepared.
