Vimba Bream
Vimba vimba
Products (2)
| Product | Package | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Ungutted, chilled | 1 kg | Lithuania |
| Ungutted, frozen | ~10 kg | Lithuania |
About vimba bream
The vimba bream (Vimba vimba) is an anadromous fish of the carp family (Cyprinidae) found in the basins of the North, Baltic, Black, Azov and Caspian Seas. The body is elongated and moderately deep, with flat sides and fairly large scales. The back is bluish-grey, the sides and belly are silvery, and the mouth is underslung. It grows to 50–60 cm in length and up to 3 kg in weight, although the fish most commonly caught are 24–35 cm long and weigh up to 1 kg. Adult vimba bream feed on benthic invertebrates, molluscs and insect larvae.
Nutritional value
Vimba bream meat is considered one of the most valuable among freshwater cyprinids — it has a mild flavour regarded as a delicacy and is oily during the spawning period. It is a good source of easily digestible protein, providing B vitamins, phosphorus, potassium and selenium. Oilier specimens contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
Fishing seasonality
Vimba bream are at their oiliest and most valuable before spawning, when they build up reserves for migration. They move from the sea into rivers to spawn in spring (April–June) and in autumn. The size and fat content of the fish vary depending on age and the fishing area.
Culinary notes
Vimba bream is particularly well suited to smoking and air-drying — traditionally it is salted, dried or fried. The meat pairs well with lemon, dill, onions and simple seasonings. Fried or smoked, the fish retains a rich aroma; the finer bones call for care when serving.
