Twaite Shad
Alosa fallax
Products (2)
| Product | Package | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Ungutted, chilled | — | Lithuania |
| Ungutted, frozen | ~10 kg | Lithuania |
About the twaite shad
The twaite shad (Alosa fallax) is a migratory fish of the herring family (Clupeidae) that resembles a herring in appearance. The body is laterally compressed, the back bluish violet and the flanks and belly silvery, with a row of dark spots running along the flanks. The tail fin is deeply forked. The fish lives along the coasts of the Atlantic Ocean and moves up into river mouths to spawn. Specimens caught are most often 30–35 cm long; in rare cases they grow to 50 cm and weigh up to 1.5 kg.
Nutritional value
Twaite shad flesh has a rich, fattier flavour typical of the herring family. It is a good source of complete protein and supplies beneficial unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, as well as B vitamins and minerals: iodine, selenium and phosphorus. Its fattier texture keeps it tender during cooking.
Fishing seasonality
Fat content and body size depend on the life cycle. Twaite shad is at its fattest before the spawning migration, which takes place in spring, most often in May–June. Fish size and fat content vary between seasons and fishing areas, so product characteristics may differ slightly.
Culinary notes
Thanks to its fattier flesh, twaite shad is particularly well suited to smoking, which brings out its aroma. It can also be pan-fried, grilled or marinated. The fish pairs well with lemon, fresh herbs, onions and white wine. Bear in mind the small bones: slow cooking softens them.
