Fresh seafood delivered

Having fresh seafood delivered to your doorstep is not only possible, but simple and relatively affordable. There are numerous online fish markets that offer a vast array of seafood and can have it delivered over night. The cost will vary, depending on shipping cost and market prices, but the same is true at any local market or restaurant. Unless you live on, or near the ocean, shopping online may be your only chance to find fresh seafood.

Even for those who do live near the coast, having fresh seafood delivered is rarely an option. Many sites advertise fish that is caught, frozen and shipped within 24 hours. A seafood market or restaurant would be hard-pressed to find fresher fish than that. In fact, there are plenty of sites that will ship live lobster and crab almost anywhere in the United States. Freezing fish immediately after it is caught is common practice, even if it is to be sold right on shore. Fish are delicate animals and their bodies begin to deteriorate as soon as they are removed from the water.

Once you have gone out for fish, or had fresh seafood delivered, it is vital that proper handling methods be used. Although some seafood may be consumed raw, fish are a source of foodborne illness just like any other meat and must be prepared accordingly. It is always best to cook and consume fresh seafood the day of purchase, but when this is not practical, safe storage techniques must be used. Fresh seafood, or leftovers should never be kept for more than two or three days.

Below is a list of several popular cooking methods for fish:
• Grill – Grill should be set on or around medium. Fish should be turned about halfway through cooking.
• Sautee or Shallow Fry – Preheat oil on medium heat and dust fish lightly with flour. Turn halfway through cooking.
• Poach – Use enough water to completely submerge fish, add a few drops of lemon juice and simmer until cooked through.
• Bake – Preheat oven to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit, place fish in covered pan on middle rack and cook until meat is flaky but not dry.
• Steam – Place fish in steamer pan or between to plates over boiling water. Poke with a fork to check after ten minutes. Flesh should be warm all the way through.
•Deep Fry – Heat oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Batter filets, or roll them in bread crumbs, and cook until golden brown.
• Microwave – Microwave preparation is not recommended, but if necessary it will be most like steaming. Place fish in a safe container with about ¼ inch of water or liquid and cook on high for several minutes. Because microwave ovens vary, time should be based on manufacturers’ suggestion.

The most significant drawback to having fresh seafood delivered is that it doesn’t allow you to personally inspect the wares. Many sites offer money-back satisfaction guarantees, so consumers feel less risk. The descriptions and pictures online are no substitute for a hands-on inspection. There are several freshness indicators to look for when selecting fresh fish and seafood. Color, texture, smell and feel are all signs of freshness.

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