Want Less Fishy Fish? The Answer Is Milk (2024)

No one likes overly fishy fish. The trouble is, unless you're cooking fish right after it was caught, it's likely to have been out of water for several hours—even overnight or longer. If it's been flash-frozen, that may not be a problem, but as fish lingers, even refrigerated, its aroma can become steadily more pronounced, even before it starts to go bad.

All of this is explained in greater detail in the recently published, very technical book from Cook's Illustrated, Cook's Science, so if you want to get down to the nitty gritty of the acids and bacteria in play that cause the odiferous reaction, check it out. What's more important, however, is that although fish and shellfish that's been sitting around for a little while may not be the most pleasingly fragrant, that doesn't necessarily mean it's gone bad. To determine if fish is still good to eat, trust your senses—there's a difference between a slight fishy smell and an acrid fish-gone-bad smell. Also, the flesh should be firm, not mushy, and should look and feel dewy as opposed to dried-out, or turning grey.

Once the fish is cooked and paired with a flavorful sauce, you might not even notice the smell anymore. But, if you want to make sure to get rid of the odor, Cook's Science does offer two easy solutions:

1. Before cooking, soak the fish in milk for 20 minutes

In this scenario, the protein in the milk binds with the compounds that cause that fishy odor, in essence extracting if from the fish. What's left behind is sweet-smelling, brighter flesh with clean flavor. (Just make sure you pour that milk down the drain. 'Cause ew.)

2. Squeeze lemon juice over the fish before cooking it.

Lemon juice will neutralize those odors, but it will also leave the fish with a citrusy flavor. But is that ever a bad thing?

Want Less Fishy Fish? The Answer Is Milk (2024)

FAQs

Want Less Fishy Fish? The Answer Is Milk? ›

Before cooking, soak the fish in milk for 20 minutes

Does milk make fish less fishy? ›

Next, soak the fish in milk for about 30 minutes. The milk will help to neutralize the strong fishy taste of the fish.

How long do you soak fish in milk to get rid of fishy taste? ›

Online research had recommended letting the fish soak submerged in milk for around 20 minutes, before rinsing and cooking in your preferred fashion.

Does milk help fish smell? ›

Acids and milk are both great odor absorbents. They work similarly to baking soda only you can apply them directly to the fish.

How long to soak bluegill in milk? ›

Start by soaking your bluegill fillets in milk for a couple hours. According to Zona, this step will enhance the flavor. And seeing how you have a bit of time on your hands before the fish is ready to be coated and fried, you might think about what you'd like to serve with your bluegill.

Should I soak fish in milk before frying? ›

Before cooking, soak the fish in milk for 20 minutes

In this scenario, the protein in the milk binds with the compounds that cause that fishy odor, in essence extracting if from the fish. What's left behind is sweet-smelling, brighter flesh with clean flavor. (Just make sure you pour that milk down the drain.

Do you rinse fish off after soaking in milk? ›

Well if you put the seafood in a bowl and add cold milk, cover it and let it sit in the fridge for about a half hour the smell goes away. Then just rinse it off, pat it dry and cook as you normally would. I have used this trick on haddock, cod, swordfish and shrimp.

What fish has no fishy taste? ›

Tilapia – tilapia is arguably the mildest tasting fish there is. It's not fishy at all and has a mild sweetness. Tilapia is easy to prepare and goes well with a variety of different flavor profiles. Cod – cod has a mild flavor that's slightly sweet like tilapia.

Why cook fish in milk? ›

When poaching fish in whole milk, the fat keeps the fish incredibly moist while infusing it with a delicate sweetness. Choose a pan that allows the fish to fit snugly in a single layer. Creamy baby potatoes and tender leeks and fennel add flavor and texture to this luscious, simple meal.

Why can I smell myself through my pants? ›

Limiting frequent bathing can lead to dirt, sweat and dead skin cells build up leading to Your clothes have a strong smell. You can reduce these effects by showering regularly and washing with mild soap and warm water. Sweating in the groin area can attract fungi and bacteria that lead to bad odors.

How do I get rid of fishy smell fast? ›

Sometimes, just taking a shower or bath and changing your underwear and pants can help get rid of a fishy vagin*l smell. If you don't have time to take a bath or shower, use a warm washcloth and wipe down the area until you do. It's important to include the folds between your legs and belly, as they can trap odor.

How long can fish marinate in milk? ›

It may sound bizarre, but, according to Epicurious, an effective way to combat fishiness is by soaking the protein in milk prior to cooking. To try this trick in your home kitchen, follow Cook's Illustrated's advice: before cooking, let your fish spend about 20 minutes sitting in milk to absorb any unwanted odors.

What scent gets rid of fish smell? ›

Vinegar is for more than just cleaning—it can get rid of persistent fishy odors, too. The acidity of vinegar neutralizes alkaline odors, leaving you with a fish-scent-free home.

What does soaking fish in Sprite do? ›

Use this method to take care of any fish slime, odors or after taste left on fresh fish fillets. Cut up your fillets then soak them in a bowl with Sprite or Seven-Up before cooking. Anywhere from five minutes minimum to two hours in the refrigerator will do the trick.

Why do you simmer fish in milk? ›

Poaching your fish in milk will up your flavor, texture, and creaminess. You've most likely been poaching your fish in wine, butter, or oil. And these liquids work just fine.

How to neutralize trimethylamine? ›

Dietary supplements such as activated charcoal and copper chlorophyllin can bind trimethylamine in the gut and hence reduce the amount available for absorption. The use of slightly acidic soaps and body lotions can convert trimethylamine on the skin into a less volatile form that can be removed by washing.

How to stop fish from smelling when cooking? ›

Cook the fish in a well-ventilated area, such as outside on a grill or in an open kitchen with a window or fan. Use strong-smelling herbs and spices, such as lemon, dill, or ginger, to mask the smell of the fish. Add a small amount of vinegar to the cooking water, which can help neutralize the odor.

What fish tastes the least fishy? ›

Tilapia – tilapia is arguably the mildest tasting fish there is. It's not fishy at all and has a mild sweetness. Tilapia is easy to prepare and goes well with a variety of different flavor profiles. Cod – cod has a mild flavor that's slightly sweet like tilapia.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Kieth Sipes

Last Updated:

Views: 6071

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (47 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kieth Sipes

Birthday: 2001-04-14

Address: Suite 492 62479 Champlin Loop, South Catrice, MS 57271

Phone: +9663362133320

Job: District Sales Analyst

Hobby: Digital arts, Dance, Ghost hunting, Worldbuilding, Kayaking, Table tennis, 3D printing

Introduction: My name is Kieth Sipes, I am a zany, rich, courageous, powerful, faithful, jolly, excited person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.