Silver carp: A culinary gem packed with omega-3 and vitamins

Every avid angler feels joy when they catch that wonderful, healthy fish on their hook. Despite its resemblance to carp, silver carp lacks the muddy taste, making it a culinary favourite among many gourmets. Known as the "water purifier," it is packed with nutritional value, making it a fish we should include more often.

Silver carp is a real treasure trove of protein and omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids, which benefit heart health, regulate cholesterol, and prevent atherosclerosis. It also contains B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12), which support the nervous system, speed up metabolism, and are crucial for energy production. Additionally, silver carp is rich in iron, essential for producing haemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen to our cells. Therefore, its consumption is significant for maintaining proper oxygenation levels in the blood.

This fish is also a source of other vital elements. Silver carp also provides us with calcium, which cares for healthy bones and teeth and supports muscle function, and selenium, an essential trace element that supports the thyroid and acts as an antioxidant. Its meat also contains vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from free radicals, and vitamin A, which is essential for skin health, vision, and the immune system.

However, it is essential to remember that, like all fish, silver carp can accumulate heavy metals such as mercury, especially when caught in polluted waters. These compounds are very harmful to our health. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution when consuming silver carp, particularly for individuals sensitive to heavy metals, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. It is also wise to avoid fish from suspicious sources.

Silver carp is a versatile fish that can be prepared in many ways. It is ideal for baking, grilling, stewing, or frying. Its delicate meat allows for culinary experiments with various spices and sauces. Freshly caught silver carp, served with dill and lemongrass and drizzled with lemon juice, makes for a delicious and healthy meal. It pairs well with almost all vegetables and is low in calories.

It is best to plan silver carp fishing during sunny and windless weather. At that time, these fish swim very close to the surface, recognisable by a characteristic hump on the water's surface.