Did you know salmon collars are a bargain delicacy, priced at half the cost of salmon fillets1? These cuts are rich, flavorful, and moist. They’re a hidden gem for seafood fans. In fact, they’re a delicacy in Asian cuisine, but not well-known in American supermarkets2.
As a salmon lover, I’ve found the hidden benefits of salmon collars. They’re full of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, they’re versatile in cooking, from grilling to baking1. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly seafood option or want to try something new, salmon collars are a great choice.
Key Takeaways
- Salmon collars are a budget-friendly, flavorful cut of salmon
- They are a delicacy in Asian cuisine, but often overlooked in the US
- Salmon collars are high in omega-3 fatty acids and versatile in cooking
- Consumers tend to prefer traditional salmon cuts like fillets, creating a lower demand for collars
- Increasing the popularity of salmon collars could contribute to ocean sustainability by reducing waste
What Are Salmon Collars?
Salmon collars come from the fish’s clavicle, or collarbone, area3. They have rich, fatty meat with a mix of fat and bone. In Asian cuisine, they’re a favorite for their texture and taste4. Now, they’re becoming more popular in the US as people learn about their great qualities.
Anatomy of a Salmon Collar
The salmon collar is from the area behind the fish’s head, near the clavicle. It’s known for its dense, fatty meat. This makes it moist and flavorful3. It’s best from fish that weigh 5 pounds or more for better quality and flavor3.
A Delicacy in Asian Cuisine
In Asian cooking, salmon collars are a prized delicacy. Their rich meat pairs well with bold flavors and cooking methods4. They’re often marinated in sesame oil, soy sauce, and mirin. A classic dipping sauce is ponzu, a citrus-soy blend3.
Salmon collars are versatile. They can be grilled, pan-fried, broiled, or baked. This makes them perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions4.
As salmon collars gain popularity, more Americans are trying them. They’re affordable and easy to prepare. This makes them a favorite for home cooks and chefs43.
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon Collars
Salmon collars are a super nutritious part of the fish, full of omega-3 fatty acids5. They have lots of these healthy fats, which are good for your heart, brain, and help reduce inflammation5. Adding salmon collars to your meals is a simple way to get more of these key nutrients.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The salmon collar is a goldmine of omega-3 fatty acids, vital for your health and well-being5. These fats are key in fighting inflammation, keeping your heart healthy, and supporting your brain5. By adding salmon collars to your dishes, you can easily increase your omega-3 intake and enjoy their health perks.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 2.2 grams |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.4 micrograms |
| Selenium | 35 micrograms |
Salmon collars are a great source of important nutrients, making them a healthy and tasty addition to your meals5. Whether you grill, broil, or pan-fry them, salmon collars are a delicious and nutritious choice to enhance your meals.
Why Salmon Collars Are Good
Salmon collars are a great choice for those who want a tasty and affordable salmon dish6. They are cut fresh every morning from wild King Salmon or Atlantic Salmon6. This makes them a favorite among chefs for their moist texture, rich taste, and low cost6.
Budget-Friendly Salmon Option
Salmon collars are very affordable. They cost less than $3 per pound, unlike salmon fillets which can be over $12 per pound6. This makes them perfect for those who want to enjoy salmon without spending a lot.
Flavorful and Moist Texture
Salmon collars are also known for their moist and flavorful texture6. Their high-fat content keeps the meat juicy and tender when cooked6. This is different from salmon fillets, which can dry out easily6.
Many customers love the freshness, tenderness, and taste of salmon collars6. They enjoy them grilled, broiled, or simmered in sauces6. People appreciate their affordability and the variety of ways to cook them6.
“Salmon collars have a slight smell compared to bellies, but I still enjoyed the purchase. The freshness, tenderness, and affordability make them a great option.”
Whether you grill, broil, or simmer them in sauce, salmon collars are a delicious and budget-friendly choice6. Their natural tenderness, rich flavor, and versatility make them a hit among seafood lovers6.
| Cooking Method | Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grilling Shioyaki-style | 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 1 |
The Japanese cuisine has long praised salmon collars for their unique flavor7. They combine the fish head’s gelatinous texture with the salmon belly’s fatty butteriness7. Japanese grocers often sell them individually, and grilling them in the shioyaki style is recommended7.
Whether you’re new to seafood or a seasoned lover, salmon collars are worth trying6. They offer a tender, flavorful, and versatile option for enjoying salmon67.
Cooking Salmon Collars
Salmon collars are a tasty and easy-to-make fish cut. They have more fat and are bigger, so they don’t dry out or get overcooked like thin fillets8. You can grill, broil, or simmer them in sauces and curries. This lets the meat soak up delicious flavors8.
To start, just season the collars with oil, salt, and pepper. Then, quickly broil or grill them8. It’s quick, taking under 20 minutes with just four ingredients8. You’ll get a dish full of omega-3s and rich flavor8.
Broiled salmon collars are a tasty, rustic Japanese dish found in sushi places8. They’re a tuna substitute called Hamachi Kama, loved by many8. They offer a rich salmon taste and tender belly fat, making them a joy to eat8.
Salmon collars are packed with protein, omega-3s, and vitamins like B12 and D. They also have minerals like potassium and iron8. You can find them at local fish shops, seafood markets, and Japanese stores8. They’re often served with Japanese rice and veggies or as an appetizer with soy sauce and lemon8.
Are salmon collars good?
User-Friendly Cut for Grilling and Broiling
Yes! Salmon collars are perfect for those who love seafood. They offer a rich flavor and are easy to cook. Unlike thin fillets, collars can handle high heat without drying out9.
Their fat content and bone-in structure keep them moist. This makes them taste amazing.
These collars are cut fresh every morning. They come from Wild King Salmon or Atlantic Salmon. This reduces waste and is good for the environment and economy9.
The cut includes the stiff pectoral fin and a fat cap under the gills. These parts are great with marinades and high-heat cooking9.
Seafood, like salmon collars, should be kept cold for up to 3 days. Thaw them in the fridge overnight9. People love their taste, freshness, and tenderness.
They can be grilled, broiled, pan-fried, marinated, or seasoned. This versatile cut is sure to delight9. It’s perfect for seafood lovers, offering great flavor and easy cooking9.
Salmon Collar Recipes
Broiled with Citrus Soy Sauce
Salmon collars are a versatile and flavorful cut that can be prepared in a variety of delicious ways. One simple yet elegant recipe is Broiled Salmon Collars with Citrus Soy10.
To make this dish, the salmon collars are seasoned with a light coating of oil, salt, and pepper. Then, they are broiled until the skin becomes crispy and the flesh is cooked through8. The tangy, umami-rich sauce is made by combining soy sauce, citrus juice, and a touch of honey. This creates a perfect balance of flavors to complement the rich salmon.
The key to success with this recipe is to keep a close eye on the collars as they broil. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent any flare-ups8. Once the skin is crispy and the flesh is cooked to your desired doneness, the collars can be served immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of pickled daikon or thinly sliced scallions for a refreshing contrast10.
Salmon collars are a unique and often overlooked cut of the fish. But they offer a delightfully moist and flavorful eating experience. Broiled with Citrus Soy Sauce is just one way to enjoy this versatile ingredient and savor the natural richness of the salmon108.
Where to Buy Salmon Collars
Salmon collars are a special and tasty cut of salmon. They are not common in regular American grocery stores. But, there are a few good places where seafood lovers can find them11.
Asian Markets
Asian markets and grocery stores are the top spots for salmon collars. They are loved in many Asian dishes. These stores have a big selection of seafood, including whole fish. They can be cut into salmon collars11.
Fishmongers
Going to a local fishmonger or fish counter at your supermarket is another great option. Many fishmongers can order or save salmon collars for you. Getting to know a good fishmonger helps you get salmon collars more often11.
Even though salmon collars are not as common as salmon fillets, they are worth the search. Seafood fans can find them at Asian markets or by talking to a fishmonger11.
Comparing Salmon Collars to Fillets
Salmon is a favorite seafood choice, but many overlook salmon collars. These cuts have unique benefits over fillets12.
Salmon collars are cheaper, costing less than a third of fillets’ price12. They’re great for those wanting to eat more salmon without spending a lot. They also cook better, staying moist and flavorful, perfect for beginners12.
Salmon collars are not just about saving money. They taste richer and more moist than fillets13. This makes them a favorite in Asian cooking, where they’re grilled, broiled, or used in soups13.
| Salmon Collars | Salmon Fillets |
|---|---|
| More affordable (1/3 the price of fillets) | Higher cost per pound |
| More forgiving and less prone to drying out | More delicate and susceptible to overcooking |
| Richer, more flavorful, and moist texture | Leaner and more delicate texture |
| Prized in many Asian cuisines | More widely recognized and popular |
While fillets are more common, salmon collars offer a tasty, affordable option1213.
Try salmon collars next time you’re cooking seafood. They’re flavorful, moist, and budget-friendly, making them a great choice1213.
Conclusion
Exploring salmon collars has shown me their hidden value as a budget-friendly seafood option. These affordable cuts are not only tasty and moist but also rich in nutrients like omega-3s, protein, and vitamins14. They are full of omega-3s, which help lower inflammation, blood pressure, and boost brain health14.
Salmon collars are also very versatile, fitting into many dishes from main courses to soups and stews15. Their15 rich texture and bold taste make them a great choice for seafood lovers16. Pairing them with olive oil, lemon, and garlic can make them even more nutritious and flavorful.
As I keep learning about salmon collars, I’m sure more people will see their true value. They offer all the benefits of salmon at a lower cost, making them a smart and tasty choice for our meals1416.
FAQ
What are salmon collars?
Salmon collars are a hidden gem in fish cuts. They are rich in flavor and moist. Often ignored in the US, they’re a favorite in Asian cooking.
What are the benefits of salmon collars?
Salmon collars are packed with omega-3s, making them very nutritious. They’re also cheaper than salmon fillets. Their meat is flavorful and easy to cook.
How do you cook salmon collars?
Cooking salmon collars is easy. You can grill, broil, or simmer them in sauces. Just season with oil, salt, and pepper, then broil or grill quickly.
Where can you find salmon collars?
Finding salmon collars in US supermarkets is tough. They’re more common in Asian markets or at local fishmongers. They’re a key ingredient in many Asian dishes.
How do salmon collars compare to salmon fillets?
Salmon collars beat salmon fillets in many ways. They’re much cheaper, costing less than a third of the price. They’re also easier to cook and less likely to dry out. Their meat is rich and flavorful, loved by many.
Source Links
- https://www.fourstarseafood.com/products/salmon-collars-1-lb?srsltid=AfmBOoroje98iwdTcQcTPZY5kYw_WOF9sCCjNwSAtCEL-mu7ykO1avXx – Salmon Collars – 1 lb
- https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/how-to-cook-fish-collar-article – For the Most Succulent Fish, Cook the Collar
- https://honest-food.net/salmon-collar-recipe/ – Grilled Salmon Collar Recipe – How to Cook Salmon Collar
- https://www.fourstarseafood.com/products/salmon-collars-1-lb?srsltid=AfmBOoruHoDpgIMGYnhq65r48U3mZ6hb3cBSLAlhMqJBw7yG2L79EErS – Salmon Collars – 1 lb
- https://www.fourstarseafood.com/products/salmon-collars-1-lb?srsltid=AfmBOoosUEQOp-rICFLXPT_URvX8CA_e_aU620VXGnlZk3nnv1cdGfQc – Salmon Collars – 1 lb
- https://www.fourstarseafood.com/products/salmon-collars-1-lb?srsltid=AfmBOoobp33mBVl6pbE3BciYAP6ljUFu0OlLxSko0BDQluqqfG7RWYY8 – Salmon Collars – 1 lb
- https://www.salon.com/2019/10/20/this-is-the-best-cut-of-salmon-youre-not-cooking_partner/ – This is the best cut of salmon you’re not cooking
- https://theheirloompantry.co/broiled-salmon-collars-sake-kama/ – Broiled Salmon Collars (Sake Kama) – The Heirloom Pantry
- https://www.fourstarseafood.com/products/salmon-collars-1-lb?srsltid=AfmBOopWpjowHMWk-qNrKntEXlSABfrQlUp3lY7ZuCTJHK18GwcTcWbj – Salmon Collars – 1 lb
- https://www.bonappetit.com/video/watch/how-to-grill-salmon-collars – How to Grill Salmon Collars
- https://www.fourstarseafood.com/products/salmon-collars-1-lb?srsltid=AfmBOopnS-ctmoK4L4CBXDEhavptH60uvr4eHaQ_Jq11HjayMKxrO-3B – Salmon Collars – 1 lb
- https://www.talkirvine.com/threads/where-to-buy-uncooked-fish-collars-and-bellies.8202/ – Where to buy uncooked fish collars and bellies?
- https://alaskagoldbrand.com/blogs/news/a-guide-to-our-wild-salmon-with-tasting-notes-alaska-gold-seafood?srsltid=AfmBOopuOMBzmylYXFewIu-yswXcSQcCVbwnA9fy7jT8GZtxA-qD1JIT – Wild Salmon Tasting Notes Guide
- https://jptraditionalrecipes.exblog.jp/30102340/ – Japanese Salmon Collar Recipe | Jptraditionalrecipes’s Blog
- https://recipes.net/articles/what-is-a-fish-collar/ – What Is A Fish Collar
- https://theperfecttide.com/easy-salmon-collar-recipe/ – Easy Salmon Collars – The Perfect Tide