Are you curious about trying something new for dinner? How about a delicious meal made from edible sharks?
Many people hesitate to eat sharks because of their reputation as fierce predators, but not all sharks are dangerous or endangered. Several species of sharks are considered sustainable and safe for consumption.
Before you turn your nose up, consider this: shark meat is a popular delicacy in many countries and is known for its unique texture and flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore five types of sharks that are safe and enjoyable to eat.
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Mako Shark
Mako sharks are prized game fish that are also a delicious seafood option.
Their meat is lean, tender, and moist, with a mild flavor that is often compared to swordfish.
Mako shark meat is versatile and can be used in various dishes, such as fish tacos, ceviche, and grilled shark steaks.
To prepare mako shark, marinate the meat for a few hours to enhance its flavor, then grill it to perfection.
Thresher Shark
Thresher sharks have a unique elongated upper lobe of their tail fin, and their meat is equally distinctive.
Thresher shark meat has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture, making it perfect for grilling, baking, or frying.
Thresher shark meat is commonly served as fish and chips, grilled shark skewers, and shark steak sandwiches.
Season the edible sharks with a mix of spices, herbs, and lemon juice to bring out its flavor before cooking.
Blacktip Shark
Blacktip sharks are a smaller species with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and firm, white flesh similar to swordfish.
Blacktip shark meat is commonly used in fish stews, fish soups, and shark kebabs.
To prepare blacktip shark, it’s best to marinate it for a few hours in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and your favorite spices before cooking. That will help tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor.
Dogfish Shark
Dogfish sharks, also known as spiny dogfish, have a sweet, nutty flavor and a firm, flaky texture that is perfect for deep frying.
Dogfish shark meat is commonly used in fish and chips, as well as seafood stews, chowders, and curries.
To prepare dogfish shark, dip the meat in a batter of flour, cornmeal, and spices, then deep fry until crispy and golden.
Blue Shark
Blue sharks are a large, deep-water species with a mild flavor and a tender, moist texture.
Blue shark meat is commonly used in burgers, fish pies, and grilled shark steaks.
To prepare blue shark, marinate the meat for a few hours in a mixture of oil, lemon juice, and garlic, then grill or broil until cooked through.
So while eating shark meat may not be for everyone, many types of sharks are safe and enjoyable to eat. By trying different types of shark meat, you can expand your culinary horizons and experience new flavors and textures. Plus, by choosing sustainable and responsible sources, you can enjoy your meal without contributing to overfishing or endangering species.
FAQ
Some people enjoy it as a delicacy, while others avoid it due to health concerns or ethical reasons. For those reasons, there are usually some questions people need answered before venturing into this food choice.
This FAQ section will address some pressing questions you might still have about edible sharks.
What is the best shark to eat?
There are hundreds of species of sharks, but only a few of them are usually consumed as food.
The most popular species for consumption are the blacktip shark, the mako shark, and the dogfish shark. These sharks are known for their mild flavor and firm texture, making them popular choices for seafood dishes.
Why is shark meat not edible?
The meat of some sharks can be toxic to humans due to high levels of mercury and other heavy metals.
Sharks are also apex predators, which means they sit at the very top of the aquatic food chain and can accumulate high levels of toxins in their bodies from consuming other fish and animals.
Is shark meat good to eat?
The nutritional value of shark meat is similar to other types of seafood, as it is a great source of protein and fatty acids.
However, due to the high levels of mercury and other toxins, shark meat consumption is not recommended for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children. Moreover, the overfishing of sharks has led to a decline in their populations. Ensuring you choose a sustainable species is important for the environment.
Is it legal to eat sharks?
The legality of eating sharks depends on the species and the country.
In many countries, including the United States, eating certain species of sharks is legal. However, some species are protected under international law, such as the great white shark, whale shark, and basking shark.