Looking for a healthy and delicious seafood option? 100 grams of steamed or poached shark only contains 165 calories, making it a great option for those wanting to maintain a healthy diet.
Not only is shark low in calories, it also has a high nutritional value. It's rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great addition to your diet.
In this article, we'll explore the calorie count, weight, nutritional value, cooking methods, health benefits, and potential risks of eating shark meat. We'll also provide you with some tips on how to prepare and serve steamed or poached shark.
Calorie Count of Steamed or Poached Shark
As mentioned earlier, 100 grams of steamed or poached shark only contains 165 calories. Compare that to 100 grams of fried chicken, which contains approximately 335 calories, and it's clear that shark is a healthier option. It's important to note that the calorie count of shark can vary depending on the method of cooking and any additional ingredients used. For example, adding butter or oil to the cooking process will increase the calorie count. Overall, shark is a low-calorie and healthy seafood option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet.
Weight of Steamed or Poached Shark
The weight of steamed or poached shark will of course depend on how much you cook. However, when purchasing shark meat, it is commonly sold in fillets approximating 4-6 ounces in weight. It's important to remember that shark meat is high in protein, so a little goes a long way in helping you feel full and satisfied.
Cooking Methods for Shark
Shark can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, baking, frying, and of course, steaming or poaching. When cooked properly, shark meat is tender and flavorful. To prepare steamed or poached shark, simply season the meat with salt and pepper or any other desired spices, and place it in a steamer or poaching liquid. Steam or poach until the meat is cooked through and tender, approximately 10-15 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillet.
Nutritional Value of Shark Meat
Shark meat is a great source of lean protein, with 100 grams of cooked shark containing approximately 20 grams of protein. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. Shark meat is also low in fat and carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-fat or low-carb diet.
Fatty Acids in Shark Meat
Shark meat is known to contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining good health. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost brain function. However, it's important to note that shark meat can also contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful if consumed in large amounts.
Health Benefits of Eating Shark Meat
In addition to being a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, shark meat has been shown to have numerous health benefits. Studies have shown that it can help to reduce the risk of heart disease, improve brain function and memory, and even reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. However, due to the high levels of mercury in shark meat, it's important to consume it in moderation and to select shark that has been sustainably caught.
How to Prepare Steamed or Poached Shark
To prepare steamed or poached shark, simply season the meat with salt and pepper or any other desired spices, and place it in a steamer or poaching liquid. Steam or poach until the meat is cooked through and tender, approximately 10-15 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillet. Once cooked, the shark can be served hot with a drizzle of lemon juice or any other desired sauce. It can also be chilled and served cold as a refreshing seafood salad.
Serving Suggestions for Shark
There are many different ways to serve steamed or poached shark. It can be served hot or cold, as a main course or as a salad. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:
- Serve the shark hot with a side of steamed vegetables.
- Chill the shark and serve it in a salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light dressing.
- Use the shark meat as a filling for tacos or wraps.
- Add the shark to soups or stews for an extra dose of protein and flavor.
Shark as a Sustainable Seafood Option
Shark is often considered an unsustainable seafood option due to the high levels of bycatch associated with shark fishing. However, when harvested sustainably, shark can be a responsible seafood choice. Look for shark that has been caught using techniques that reduce bycatch, such as longline fishing rather than trawling. It's also important to select shark that has been sourced from fisheries that are certified by trusted organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).
Potential Risks of Eating Shark Meat
Due to the high levels of mercury in shark meat, it's important to consume it in moderation and to select shark that has been sustainably caught. Mercury can accumulate in the flesh of fish and, when consumed in high amounts, can be harmful to human health. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children are especially advised to limit their consumption of shark and other high-mercury fish to reduce the risk of mercury poisoning.
Enjoying shark as a part of a healthy and balanced diet is possible, especially when purchased from sustainable sources and consumed in moderation.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Steamed or Poached Shark
1) Is shark meat healthy?
Yes, shark meat is a good source of protein and various nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, some species of shark may contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
2) How do you prepare steamed or poached shark?
To steam or poach shark, simply season the fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in a steamer basket or shallow pan with a small amount of water or broth. Cook the shark for approximately 6-8 minutes until it is firm and opaque.
3) What does steamed or poached shark taste like?
Shark meat has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a firm, meaty texture. It is often compared to swordfish or halibut.
4) What should you serve with steamed or poached shark?
Steamed or poached shark can be served with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple salad. Lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill can also add a burst of flavor.
5) Can you eat shark skin?
Some species of shark have tough, leathery skin that is not edible. However, other species like dogfish or spiny dogfish have edible skin that can be fried or baked into shark chips.