Sushi Grade fish

Reeling in the freshest of fresh

If you're planning to use raw fish in your sushi recipes, be on the look-out for sashimi-grade fish or sushi-grade fish.

Some sushi afficiandos view the phrase "sashimi-grade" as a marketing term that simply means the raw fish is of the highest quality and freshness.

Of course, you wouldn't want it any other way!

It may come as a surprise to you to learn that most of the raw fish and seafood served at your local sushi bar is not fresh. Huh?

In the United States, for example, the law requires that sashimi be flash frozen. This is done to kill any nasty parasites that might cause you serious harm. Salmon is an example of one type fish that must be frozen.

It is also important to remember that any kind of freshwater fish should never be eaten raw.

Find a fish market you can trust

Most of us don't have the good fortune of living close to Tokyo's famous Tsukiji Fish Market, the biggest and busiest in the world.

Finding a reputable fish monger might pose a challenge to sushi addicts living in small cities or towns.

If you don't have one in your town, don't, and I repeat, don't trot off to your local supermarket and yank any 'ole piece of raw fish off the shelve. You could end up with some nasty worm or parasite!

There are numerous on-line retailers that can satisfy your need for sashimi-grade (sushi grade) seafood.

How to spot a fresh fish

The following guidelines will help you determine if the fish for your sushi recipes is fresh. If in doubt, don't be afraid to ask your local fish monger.

• The fish doesn't have an odor. In other words, it doesn't have a "fishy" smell. No, I'm not contradicting myself!
• The skin is firm and has no soft spots or rips in the flesh. When pressed, it bounces back
• The edges of the fish should be fresh with no hint of dryness
• The fish should not be sitting in a pool of liquid
• The eyes of the fish should be shiny and clear
• Scales look shiny and cling tightly to the skin
• The gills hould be a bright red or pink color and contain no slime