How to Eat Fish With Bones – Tips for Easier Preparation and Enjoyment

Introduction

Eating fish with bones can seem like an intimidating prospect, but it doesn’t have to be. Fish is a delicious, nutritious food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks on how to eat fish with bones so you can enjoy it without worrying about getting a bone stuck in your throat.

Use Boneless Fish

One of the easiest ways to enjoy fish without worrying about bones is to purchase boneless varieties. Popular choices include tilapia, cod, haddock, pollock, and salmon. All of these fish come filleted or skinless, so you don’t need to worry about removing the bones yourself. The downside is that boneless fish can be more expensive than the bone-in variety.

Purchase a Fish Bone Tweezer

If you’re still worried about eating fish with bones, you can purchase a fish bone tweezer. This is a tool specifically designed to easily remove small bones from cooked fish. It has two long handles with a curved end that can be used to grab onto the bones and pull them out. It’s an inexpensive tool that can save you time and energy when preparing fish.

Choose Fish With Fewer Bones

When choosing fish with bones, look for ones that are less likely to have small bones. Examples include halibut, sea bass, and mackerel. These types of fish tend to have fewer and larger bones, making them easier to spot and remove. If you’re unsure about what type of fish to buy, ask your local fishmonger for advice.

Cook the Fish Whole

Another way to make eating fish with bones easier is to cook it whole. This way, you can remove the bones before serving. Cooking fish whole also helps to keep it moist and flavorful. To cook a whole fish, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and place the fish in a roasting pan. Rub it with oil and seasonings, then bake for 25 minutes or until the flesh flakes easily with a fork.

Peel Off the Skin

If you’re still worried about getting a bone stuck in your throat, you can remove the skin before eating. This will help to reduce the number of small bones present. To do this, start at the tail and work your way up, gently peeling the skin away from the flesh. Be sure to use a sharp knife and work slowly to avoid tearing the flesh.

Cut Away From the Bones

Once the skin has been removed, you can begin cutting away from the bones. Start by cutting around the backbone and then down each side of the ribcage. Make sure to use a sharp knife and take care not to cut too deep, as this could release the bones into the flesh. When finished, carefully lift the fillets off the bones.

Ask Your Local Fishmonger

If you’re still unsure about how to prepare fish with bones, you can always ask your local fishmonger for advice. They will be able to recommend the best types of fish for you and provide helpful tips on how to safely remove the bones. They may even be able to clean the fish for you, saving you time and effort.

Conclusion

Eating fish with bones doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. By following the tips outlined above, you can easily and safely enjoy fish with bones. Choose boneless fish if possible, purchase a fish bone tweezer, select fish with fewer bones, cook the fish whole, peel off the skin, and cut away from the bones. Finally, don’t forget to ask your local fishmonger for help if needed.