Tips

5 Easy Ways to Reduce the Saltiness of Dried Fish

If you're a fan of the delectable flavor of dried fish but are looking for ways to reduce the saltiness, then you're in for a treat! Discover 5 simple and effective methods to make your dried fish less salty. Indulge in the perfect balance of taste and health with these easy-to-follow tips.

Administrator

22 July, 2024

Salted fish is a popular ingredient used in various dishes in Vietnam. However, due to health concerns, some people may find the taste too salty. So, if you’re looking for ways to reduce the saltiness of salted fish, follow these tips below.

1 Methods to Reduce Saltiness in Salted Fish

Here are some common methods to help reduce the saltiness of salted fish:

Using Rice Water

Soak the salted fish in rice water for about 30 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with cold water. After that, you can start cooking your delicious meals with the fish.

Using Lemon/Lime Juice

Mix the juice of half a lemon or lime with 500ml of water, and soak the salted fish in this mixture for about 30 minutes. This will significantly reduce the saltiness of the fish.

Using Salt

Surprisingly, using salt to reduce the saltiness of salted fish works! According to the principle of osmosis, salt will move from a higher concentration to a lower one to balance the solution. So, soaking the salted fish in a saltwater solution for about 15 minutes will help reduce its saltiness.

Using Hot Water

This is a simple method where you boil a pot of hot water and soak the salted fish in it for about 30 minutes. This process will significantly reduce the saltiness of the fish.

Marinating the Fish

Marinate the salted fish with ingredients like ginger, lemon/lime, or vinegar. This will not only reduce the saltiness but also add a delightful flavor to the fish. Home cooks can easily apply this method and save time in the kitchen.

2 How to Store Salted Fish

Ways to Store Salted Fish

To properly store salted fish, you can follow these methods:

Wrap the fish tightly in newspaper and store it in the freezer. This way, you can keep the fish for up to 6 months.
When you buy salted fish, it’s best to sun-dry it for about 1-2 days until it’s completely dry. Then, wrap it tightly in newspaper and store it in a dry place.
If possible, consider vacuum-sealing the fish. This method will help you maintain the freshness and flavor of the fish for up to a year.

We hope you found these tips on reducing the saltiness of salted fish and storing it properly helpful. Don’t forget to save this information for future reference!

Frequently asked questions

The saltiness of dried fish is often a result of the preservation process, as salt is used to cure and dehydrate the fish. While this is necessary to extend the shelf life of the fish, it can sometimes result in an overly salty flavor. To reduce the saltiness, you can try soaking the dried fish in water, milk, or a mild acid like vinegar or lemon juice for a few minutes before cooking. You can also try boiling the fish in water for a few minutes to draw out some of the salt.

There are a few simple methods to reduce saltiness. Soaking the fish in cold water for 20-30 minutes is an effective way to draw out excess salt. Alternatively, you can poach the fish in water or milk, which will also help to soften the fish. Another option is to use a mild acid like vinegar or lemon juice to counteract the saltiness. Simply soak the fish in a solution of equal parts acid and water for a few minutes.

Milk contains lactose, a natural sugar, which can help to balance out the saltiness of the fish. Soaking or poaching the fish in milk adds a subtle sweetness that counteracts the salt. Additionally, the milk can help to moisturize and soften the fish, improving its texture.

When reducing saltiness, it’s important to start with a small amount of time in the soaking liquid and then taste the fish to see if further soaking is needed. You don’t want to remove all the salt, just reduce the intensity. Also, remember that the longer you soak or poach the fish, the softer it will become, so be careful not to overdo it and turn the fish mushy. Finally, if using an acid like vinegar or lemon juice, be sure to rinse the fish afterward to remove the acidic taste.

Absolutely! Reducing the saltiness of dried fish simply brings it to a more manageable level, allowing you to then season it to your taste. You can add your choice of spices, herbs, or sauces to enhance the flavor of the fish according to your preferences or the recipe you are following.