Hot Smoked Alaskan Black Cod (1 LB Average)
Hot Smoked Alaskan Black Cod, also known as Sablefish, is prized for its naturally rich oils, delicate flavor, and exceptionally soft texture. Wild-caught in Alaskan waters, the fish is lightly brined and hot-smoked over natural hardwoods, creating tender, flaky portions with a combination of savory, buttery, mildly sweet, and smoky flavors.
Sablefish is naturally high in oil, which helps it remain moist and rich during the smoking process. The finished fillet can be enjoyed on its own, served as part of an elegant seafood platter, or combined with caviar and crème fraîche for a sophisticated presentation.
Product Details
Product Type: Hot-Smoked Wild Sablefish (Black Cod)
Species: Anoplopoma fimbria
Origin: Wild-caught in Alaskan waters
Preparation: Hand-brined and hot-smoked over natural hardwoods
Weight: Approximately 1 lb per fillet
Packaging: Vacuum-sealed for freshness
Flavor: Rich, buttery, savory, gently sweet, and smoky
Texture: Soft, silky, moist, and tender
Freshness: Shipped chilled and never frozen
Shelf Life: Approximately 10–14 days refrigerated; up to 3 months frozen
Why Sablefish Is So Rich
Sablefish is known for its naturally high oil content, which gives the fish its characteristic moist and buttery texture. This makes it particularly well suited to hot smoking, as the fillet retains its tenderness while taking on the aroma and flavor of hardwood smoke.
A gentle brining process followed by controlled smoking enhances the fish without overpowering its naturally rich flavor, resulting in a refined seafood specialty suitable for both simple and elevated meals.
Flavor Profile
- Opening: Mildly salty with a rich, buttery character.
- Middle: Silky and savory with gentle hardwood-smoke notes and subtle sweetness.
- Finish: Smooth and lingering, with a clean seafood flavor and soft umami depth.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Serve chilled or gently warmed with Isigny Ste Mère Crème Fraîche, lemon zest, and fresh herbs.
- Caviar Pairing: Combine with Beluga, Kaluga, or Osetra Caviar for an elegant seafood pairing.
- Appetizer: Flake over White Toque French Crêpes or artisan toast with dill and capers.
- Main Course: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, potatoes, or creamy risotto.
- Beverage Pairings: Enjoy with Champagne, Chardonnay, or chilled vodka.
Nutritional Information
Sablefish naturally contains protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Its higher natural fat content contributes to its characteristic rich texture and flavor.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Naturally abundant in oily fish such as sablefish.
- Protein: Provides a source of high-quality dietary protein.
- Vitamins: Naturally contains vitamins including D and B12.
- Minerals: Provides nutrients such as selenium and phosphorus.
Nutritional Information per 3 oz Serving:
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 19 g
- Total Fat: 12 g
- Omega-3s: Approximately 1,500 mg
- Sodium: 320 mg
Storage & Handling
Refrigeration: Store at 32–38°F (0–3°C). After opening, consume within approximately 10 days.
Freezing: May be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Tip: Allow the fish to warm slightly from refrigerator temperature before serving if desired, which can help bring out its aroma and rich flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Black Cod actually a type of cod?
A: No. Despite its common name, Black Cod, or Sablefish, is a separate deepwater species known for its high oil content and rich, buttery texture.
Q: Is it ready to eat?
A: Yes. The product is hot-smoked and described as fully cooked and ready to serve directly from the package when properly stored.
Q: What is the best way to serve Hot Smoked Black Cod?
A: It can be served chilled or gently warmed with crème fraîche, herbs, lemon, or caviar. It can also be flaked into pasta, risotto, salads, or other dishes.
Q: Why is Black Cod so buttery?
A: Sablefish naturally contains a relatively high amount of oil, which gives it its moist, tender texture and rich mouthfeel.
Q: Is the Black Cod sustainably sourced?
A: The original description states that the fish comes from MSC-certified Alaskan fisheries. Specific certification status should be confirmed with the supplier or current product documentation.
Q: What can I pair it with?
A: Its rich, smoky flavor works well with Beluga, Kaluga, Baerii, or Osetra Caviar, as well as Isigny Ste Mère Crème Fraîche. Champagne, Chardonnay, and chilled vodka are also suggested pairings.
Hot Smoked Alaskan Black Cod – Premium Wild-Caught Sablefish
Rich, moist, and naturally buttery, Hot Smoked Alaskan Black Cod showcases the distinctive qualities of Sablefish with a delicate hardwood-smoked finish. Enjoy it on its own, pair it with crème fraîche and caviar, or incorporate it into an elegant seafood dish for a flavorful gourmet experience.