What do I do with the Oil in Canned Fish?

The oil in canned fish has a variety of uses, depending on your culinary preferences and the specific type of fish. This versatile ingredient can be used for flavoring, cooking, making dips and spreads, or even storage. Let's explore how you can make the most of this often-overlooked resource.

Flavoring

The oil from canned fish is rich in flavors from the fish, offering a unique taste enhancement to your dishes. Drizzle it over salads for a burst of flavor, use it in pasta dishes for a richer taste, or add it to your sauces and marinades. Simply incorporating a little bit of the oil from your canned fish can elevate a simple dish to something truly delicious.

Cooking

For those who enjoy cooking, the oil in canned fish can serve as a flavorful addition to sautéing or frying. It works wonders when cooking seafood and vegetables, adding an extra layer of flavor that can be tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're preparing a quick stir-fry or a slow-cooked stew, using the fish oil can change the taste of your dish profoundly.

Dips and Spreads

A simple way to use the fish oil is to create flavorful dips or spreads. Mix it with ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, or herbs to create a delicious topping for crackers or bread. The combination of flavors is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

Storage

If you prefer to use the oil later, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, you can keep it fresh and use it at your convenience. For instance, you can save the oil from sardines to make a rich and flavorful pasta sauce, or use it to make a delicious salad dressing that will give your greens a boost of taste.

Soup or Stews

When adding the oil to soups or stews, the rich flavor and richness come through. It can enhance the overall taste and texture, making your soup or stew more satisfying and comforting. It's a simple yet effective way to improve any soup or stew recipe.

Discarding and Other Uses

If you find yourself unable to use the oil, dispose of it responsibly by putting it in a sealed container and throwing it away. Alternatively, some local recycling programs might accept cooking oils, so check your local guidelines. While using it as a lubricant isn't recommended due to potential smell issues, it's still an option if you want to explore unconventional uses.

Remember to always consider the flavor profile of the oil and the dish you are preparing. Ensuring they complement each other well will result in the best possible outcome.

Alternative Uses:

Besides its culinary uses, some populations in the Middle East have reportedly used certain types of fish oil, particularly with sheep, as a lubricant. Although we couldn't document this directly, it's possible that fish oil, due to its natural properties, could be used in this manner. However, it's not recommended for everyday use.

Additional Inspiration:

One particularly delicious use for fish oil is in making a creamy pasta dish. For example, fine, skinless, and boneless smoked sardines in olive oil are a delight to taste. The oil in the can can be used to create a wonderful pasta sauce. Heat the oil in a pan, add chopped onions, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. After a minute or so, add lemon juice and white wine, simulating a traditional Italian dish. Include fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano, chopped parsley, and capers for a more sophisticated touch. This dish is perfect for special occasions like the Feast of the 12 Fishes on Christmas Eve.

So, next time you have some leftover fish oil, instead of discarding it, consider these versatile and tasty uses. Not only will you save money, but you'll also add an extra layer of flavor to your dishes. Happy cooking!