1. Remove Scales, Slime, Gills, and Black Membrane
After purchasing the fish, rinse it briefly and proceed to scrape off the scales. During this process, you’ll notice a slimy layer on the fish’s skin. This slime traps much of the fishy odor, so it’s crucial to clean it thoroughly. For slippery fish like catfish or basa, rubbing salt on the skin can help remove the slime more effectively.
Next, gut the fish to remove the internal organs and discard the gills, as they harbor dirt and bacteria. Don’t forget to scrape off the black membrane inside the belly cavity, as it’s a major source of fishy smell. Rinse out any remaining blood in the cavity thoroughly.
2. Remove the White Tendons Along the Fish’s Sides
This is a tip many chefs use, but not everyone knows about it.
After cleaning the fish, make a horizontal incision about 1 cm from the head. You’ll find a white tendon resembling a thread. Gently pull it out with your fingers or tweezers, then repeat on the other side.
According to culinary experts, removing these tendons significantly reduces the fishy odor before cooking.
3. Trim the Throat Bones
Another often-overlooked area is the bone near the fish’s belly, close to the head and spine. This spot can trap remnants of organs and black membrane, making it hard to clean with water alone.
Use scissors to trim this bone, then gently scrape off any debris with your fingernail or a knife before rinsing thoroughly. This small step ensures a cleaner fish and less fishy smell during cooking.
4. Clean Blood Along the Spine
Fish blood is a major contributor to the strong fishy odor. Besides the blood in the gills, clotted blood often accumulates along the spine’s grooves.
During preparation, use your fingers or a water stream to flush out any remaining blood in these grooves. This quick step significantly reduces the fishy smell.
5. Soak the Fish Before Cooking
After cleaning, soak the fish to further eliminate odors.
A simple method is to place the fish in cold water with a splash of vinegar and a few peppercorns for a few minutes before draining and drying.
Alternatively, rice water is an excellent deodorizer. Soak the fish in rice water for 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water to noticeably reduce the fishy smell.
6. Use Deodorizing Spices While Cooking
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