Fish is a delicious treat, but only when it's fresh. Spotting true freshness at the market takes practice—here's how I've reliably done it for years.
These 4 straightforward tips make it easy to select the best catch every time:
The fish should carry a fresh scent of the sea—think iodine or algae. An ammonia smell signals it's past its prime.
Look for bright, clear eyes that are well-rounded and fill the socket. Dull, opaque eyes mean the fish has been out of water for days.
Lift the gill cover: they should be vibrant red or pink and moist. Slimy mucus is a red flag—walk away.
The skin should gleam, with firm, springy flesh. Press gently with your thumb; it bounces back instantly, leaving no mark. Check for no discoloration along the backbone.
If these criteria check out, you've found a winner for your next meal.
Buy whole fish over fillets to verify freshness yourself and save on filleting costs.
Opt for markets with abundant, clean ice—it's the hallmark of quality seafood handling.
