Salmon (and trout) are both delicious and nutritious. They are a source of protein, provide omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B and D. Both Salmon and Trout contain minerals such as niacin and phosphorus. Salmin and Trout are both new aged proteins for those looking for a healthier protein option in their diet.
While some like to remove the skin before cooking a fillet or portions of salmon/trout, leaving the skin on gives you additional health benefits.
HEALTH BENEFITS
As we know from above, Salmon provides a high dose of omega-3 fatty acids, but did you know that it is in fact the skin itsself that contains the highest concentration of omega-3’s in fish?
There is strong evidence that these fatty acids can reduce triglyceride levels and decrease your chances of heart disease (according to the Mayo Clinic).
Many dieticians, health proffessionals, food fundies and fitness proffessionals around the world recommend that fish (including salmon and trout), be eaten two to thee times a week for its health benefits.
Cooking your salmon with the skin on, ensures that the majority of the essential nutrients and oils that the salmon has to offer, is retained and not lost during preparation or cooking.
Salmon skin in general is safe for human consumption. However, there are factors – such as individual health or supply – that may affect whether or not it is safe for one to do so. If you are nursing or pregnant, you may want to consult your doctor before eating salmon skin altogether to be on the safe side.
Always seek guidance from your healthcare professional before trying something different in your diet. Ensure you know where your food comes from. Three Streams Norwegian Salmon carries full traceability and is G.L.O.B.A.L GAP certified.
CAN YOU EAT SALMON SKIN WITH SCALES?
Yes you can! Did you know that the scales contain goodness too? Collagen is a major component of the scales. Collagen is an important make up of your bones, skin, tissue and tendons. By eating fish skin with the scales on, you are maximizing your collagen intake.
But be warned, skin with scales on is not for everyone. The texture of the scales is the biggest problem that many people have with skin on (non-descaled) salmon or trout. They can be hard and dry, making an otherwise soft fish crunchy and not necessarily in a good way.
HOW CAN YOU REMOVE SALMON SCALES AND LEAVE THE SKIN?
You can fairly easily remove scales from Salmon, even if you don’t have any special equiptment; a sharp knife is all you need. Scrape the scales off until you are left with a smooth skin, then rinse the fish and cook it as preferred.
HOW TO GET THE PERFECT SALMON SKIN FOR YOU:
Salmon skin can be removed from the flesh and cooked by itsself. At Three Streams, we have developed a crispy Trout skin product for Woolworths, as a skin chip alternative. Check the product out, HERE: https://www.woolworths.co.za/prod/Food/Chocolates-Sweets-Snacks/Chips-Dips/Veggie-Seaweed-Legume-Snacks/Rainbow-Trout-Skin-Salted-Crisps-35-g/_/A-6007875522310?isFromPLP=true
Baked skins can be used as salad garnish (think croutons without the carbs!), in sushi dishes or eaten as is as a healthy snack.
Leaving the salmon skin on the flesh of your fillet or portion, as mentioned, locks in the nutrients and oils, and in turn ensures a moist and flavourful protein portion. This is especially vital when opting to grill, roast, sear or pan fry your salmon. Crispy fried salmon skin has a similar texture to crisp bacon. The best way to achieve a perfect crispy salmon or trout skin, is to pan-fry your fillet or portion. If you have opted to remove the skin, you can always pop it into the airfryer until crisp!
When it comes to steaming or boiling your fish, you may find that the skin becomes soggy or rubbery. In this case, its best to remove it before-hand.
You may need to try a few different recipes to find your favourite way to enjoy salmon with its scales on.
HOW DO YOU REMOVE BOTH THE SCALES AND THE SKIN?
If you want to remove the skin and the scales and just eat the pink flesh, this is easy to do. You can cut away the skin using a sharp knife when the fish is raw, or you can peel the skin off easily once the fish has been cooked.
Many people find that it is easier to remove the skin from cooked Salmon or Trout. Place the tip of a knife under one corner and gently peel it away from the flesh. It should come free easily. Don’t rip ir dig in under the skin. Salmon is a very delicaate fish and once cooked can break apart.
Cutting the skin off of raw fish can be a lot harder for first timers, and some practice may be required.
