Orca Bay Keta Salmon fillets have sparked debate among consumers, with some praising their affordability and versatility, while others express disappointment with their taste and texture. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Orca Bay Keta Salmon, addressing its nutritional value, culinary uses, and overall appeal.
What is Keta Salmon?
Keta salmon, scientifically known as Oncorhynchus keta, is one of the five Pacific salmon species found in North America. It is also known as chum salmon or dog salmon. The name "dog salmon" comes from the large, canine-like teeth that males develop during spawning. While historically used as food for sled dogs, this does not reflect its nutritional value or potential for human consumption. The name "chum" is derived from tzum, the indigenous Alaskan word for "marked," referring to the salmon's distinct vertical markings. Keta salmon is the most abundant of the Pacific salmon species.
Nutritional Value
A 113g serving of Orca Bay Keta Salmon contains 140 calories, 4.5g of fat, 23g of protein, and 0g of carbohydrates. It provides 1g of saturated fat and 85mg of cholesterol per serving. Keta salmon also contains essential nutrients such as iron (0.72mg) and calcium (20.34mg). While it contains 0.0mg of vitamin C, the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute lists the amount of Omega-3 per serving of Keta Salmon at 683 mg. The Marine Stewardship Council states that Keta has lower fish oil content compared to other salmon varieties. However, both salmon varieties have similar protein - 22 grams for the Keta, and 23 for the Sockeye. All Alaskan Salmon is low in mercury, including Keta salmon.
Taste and Texture
Keta salmon has a milder flavor compared to other salmon varieties like sockeye or king salmon. With only 4 grams of fat per 112-gram portion, it has less fat content than king salmon, which has 15 grams per 113-gram portion. This lower fat content contributes to its firmer texture, which some may find less desirable than the rich, luscious texture of higher-fat salmon. Some consumers have described Orca Bay Keta Salmon as "dry" or "fishy," while others appreciate its mildness and versatility.
Orca Bay Keta Salmon from Costco
Costco offers Orca Bay Wild Keta Salmon fillets in frozen, individually vacuum-sealed portions. These single-serve portions are convenient for quick and easy meals. The fillets have the skin attached and are generally boneless, although some may contain occasional small bones.
Read also: Sockeye and Keta Salmon: Key Differences Explained.
Quality and Freshness
Some reviewers have noted a stronger "fishy" smell compared to other frozen fish. However, this does not necessarily indicate poor quality, and the fish does not taste overly fishy after cooking. The thawed flesh should be smooth and elastic, with moist skin that is not noticeably curled.
Cooking Tips
Due to its lower fat content, Keta salmon can easily dry out if overcooked. It is best cooked at a lower temperature and allowed to rest after cooking to retain moisture. Pan-frying with a little butter and spices is a popular method. The author recommends cooking it on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes each side, then removing the pan from the heat and letting it sit at least another 5 minutes before serving. The skin can be peeled off after cooking. The cooked Keta salmon is extremely pale, almost white color. As previously mentioned, the meat is firm. It’s firmer than Mahi-Mahi. It can get dry if cooked too long, or at too high a heat - this is the issue I ran into the first few times I tried to cook it. It also tends to get tough when microwaving leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
The mild flavor of Keta salmon makes it a versatile ingredient that pairs well with various seasonings and ingredients. It can be served with curried yogurt sauce, vegetables, or other sides. The author suggests a curried yogurt sauce made with Greek yogurt, curry spice mix, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne, and a touch of brown sugar.
Price and Value
Orca Bay Keta Salmon is a more affordable option compared to other wild-caught salmon varieties like sockeye. At a price of $7.67 per pound, it offers a significant cost savings compared to Costco's Kirkland brand frozen Sockeye Salmon, which costs $35 for a 3-pound bag.
Read also: Healthy Keta Salmon Dishes
Read also: Versatile Keta Recipes
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