Ide
Leuciscus idus
Products (2)
| Product | Package | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Ungutted, chilled | 1 kg | Lithuania |
| Ungutted, frozen | ~10 kg | Lithuania |
About the ide
The ide (Leuciscus idus) is a freshwater fish of the carp family (Cyprinidae) found in the rivers, flow-through lakes and estuaries of Eurasia. The body is fairly deep, slightly flattened and covered with small scales; the back is bluish grey, the flanks have a yellowish tint, the belly is silvery and the fins are fairly bright. Adults reach 30–50 cm in length, in rare cases more. The ide keeps to waters with a slow or moderate current and feeds on bottom invertebrates and plant food.
Nutritional value
Ide flesh is lean to medium-fat, light in colour and easily digestible. It is a good source of complete protein, supplying amino acids the body needs. Like other freshwater fish, it contains B vitamins, phosphorus, potassium and selenium. Its nutritional value is higher than that of many cyprinids, while its calorie content is relatively low, so the product is suitable for a light diet.
Fishing seasonality
Ide are at their fattest and have the best flesh quality in the cooler part of the year, in autumn and early winter, when they have built up reserves. In spring, before and after spawning (April–May), the fat content of the flesh decreases. The size and fat content of the catch vary depending on the water body and the season.
Culinary notes
Ide is suitable for smoking, frying, stewing and marinating. Smoking gives it a rich aroma, and frying a crisp skin. It pairs well with lemon, dill, parsley, onions, garlic and hot spices, which accentuate the mild flavour of the fish. Larger fish are conveniently cut into portions.
