Arctic Char

Common Name:

Arctic char, alpine trout, alpine char, sea trout

Product Information:

Arctic char has distinctive flavor, somewhere between that of salmon and trout, but closer to trout. The meat is moderately firm but has a finer flake than either salmon or trout. A high fat content keeps it moist. Flesh coloring ranges from deep red to pale pink. The taste is the same, regardless of the meat’s color. Arctic char, like other anadromous fish, can have parasites, which are killed by proper freezing or cooking.

Cooking Tips:

Arctic char’s flavor appeals to people who enjoy trout but find salmon too strongly flavored. In general, cook char as you would trout. Fillets and steaks can be broiled or cooked on the grill, while whole fish can be baked or poached. The skin becomes thick and leathery after cooking, so it’s best to remove it before serving. The oil content makes char also a good candidate for smoking — use either the hot or cold method.

Cooking Methods: