13 Affordable Cheapest Fish Options for Budget Shoppers
A list of 13 affordable fish options for budget shoppers includes tilapia, sardines, herring, and more that are nutritious, delicious, and won’t break the bank.
Love seafood but are worried about the cost? Don’t stress, we have a list of the 13 cheapest fish options for you. From tilapia to sardines and catfish, these affordable choices will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Fish is a nutritious meat, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin D. It benefits your body and brain, reducing heart attacks and strokes while boosting brain health. So, get ready to enjoy delicious and affordable fish that won’t break your budget!
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Herring
Herring is a type of fish with a reputation of being overlooked, but it is a very affordable option for seafood lovers on a budget. This oily fish is packed with nutrients and has a strong flavor that pairs well with bolder flavors. Herring can be fresh, smoked, or canned, making it a versatile option for many recipes.
Sardines
Sardines are a type of small, oily fish that is mostly found in the Mediterranean Sea. They are an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and iron. Sardines are typically canned in olive oil or water.
Sardines are a cheap and nutritious option for those on a budget. A can of sardines costs around $1-$2 and contains around 10-12 grams of protein. Sardines are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which is beneficial for a healthy heart.
One can of sardines provides around 20% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of calcium and 10% of the RDI for iron. Sardines are a great choice if you’re looking for a cheap and healthy option.
Tilapia
Tilapia is a versatile, affordable fish, perfect for those on a budget. This type of fish is typically sold frozen, making it a convenient option for busy weeknight dinners.
When cooked properly, tilapia has a delicate flavor with a flaky texture, that makes it a popular choice among seafood lovers.
Anchovies
Anchovies is a fish that works well if you’re on a budget. They are small, oily fish often used as a flavoring agent for other dishes. You can find Anchovies in the canned fish aisle of most grocery stores.
Cod
Cod is a versatile fish that can be cooked various ways and used with different dishes. It is a whitefish with a mild taste that is popular in many cultures. Cod is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It is also low in mercury.
It can be purchased at your local store, fresh or frozen. Fresh cod is more expensive than frozen cod, but the flavor is better. Be sure to thaw frozen cod before cooking. You can bake, broil, or fry this fish or use it to make fishcakes or chowder.
When buying cod, look for firm flesh with no browning or bruising. The skin should be intact, and the eyes should be clear. Fresh cod should have a mild ocean smell. Frozen cod should be free of ice crystals and smell fresh when thawed.
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout is a relatively inexpensive fish to buy on a budget. This type of fish is typically found in the wild and caught using different methods, making it a great option for those looking for a cheap source of protein. Rainbow trout is also relatively easy to prepare for those who don’t like to cook or who don’t have time to cook.
Canned Tuna
Canned tuna is one of the most affordable fish you can buy. It’s a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids and is cooked a number of ways to make for a delicious meal.
When shopping for canned tuna look for brands packed in water or olive oil. Avoid brands packed in soybean oil, as this type of oil is high in unhealthy omega-6 fatty acids.
Canned tuna can be a healthy and affordable addition to your diet. With some creativity, you can use canned tuna to create various delicious and nutritious meals.
Salmon
Salmon is another versatile, delicious, healthy fish, perfect for budget-minded cooks. And it’s relatively inexpensive compared to other fish, making it a top-of-the-line choice for those on a tight budget.
There are many different ways to cook salmon, so you can always find a new way to enjoy this tasty fish. Whether you grill, bake or fry your salmon, you’re sure to enjoy its taste and health benefits.
Mahi-Mahi
Mahi-mahi is a type of fish that is relatively cheap to buy. It is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and can be fried, baked, or broiled to make for a wonderful. Mahi-mahi is commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean but can also be found floating around in the Pacific Ocean.
Atlantic Mackerel
Atlantic mackerel is a type of fish found in the Atlantic Ocean. This type of fish is known for its oil content, making it an excellent healthy choice for those concerned about their budget and health. Atlantic mackerel is also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Grouper
If you’re on a budget, grouper is a perfect option. This type of fish is relatively inexpensive, and it’s a versatile option for cooking. You can bake, fry, or grill grouper.
It also pairs well with different sides. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a more elaborate meal for entertaining, grouper gets a thumbs up.
Striped Bass
Striped bass is one of the cheapest fish to buy on a budget. This type of fish is usually sold by the pound, and you can buy them at most supermarkets.
Like most fish, striped bass is a versatile fish that can be broiled, baked, or fried. It’s a good option for those looking to save money on their grocery bill.
Snapper
If you’re looking for a cheap, delicious fish to add to your repertoire, look no further than snapper. This versatile seafood is perfect for everything from grilling to baking, and its mild flavor means it pairs well with sauces and spices. Plus, at just $5-7 per pound, a snapper is a terrific value for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest fish to buy at the grocery store?
The cheapest fish at most grocery stores often varies by region and season, but tilapia and catfish are commonly known for their affordability and wide availability.
Which fish offers the cheapest price per pound?
Typically, fish like tilapia, swai, and certain types of catfish offer the cheapest price per pound, striking a balance between cost and quality for budget-conscious consumers.
What is the cheapest white fish available?
When looking for the cheapest white fish, species such as haddock, pollock, and whiting often come up as cost-effective options, especially when purchased frozen.
Which cheap fatty fish can you recommend?
Mackerel and certain types of sardines are excellent options for cheap fatty fish, offering a wealth of omega-3 fatty acids without breaking the bank.
What is the cheapest seafood per pound?
The cheapest seafood per pound is often small shellfish like mussels or certain types of clams, which are not only affordable but also nutritious and flavorful.
Why is tilapia so cheap?
Tilapia is inexpensive due to its suitability for farming, as it can tolerate high population densities, exhibits rapid growth, and thrives on an affordable plant-based diet. These characteristics contribute to its relatively low cost compared to other seafood options.
What cheap fish is like salmon?
Fillets of affordable fish such as pollack, hake, halibut, and cod have a firm flesh, mild flavor, and a forgiving nature. They can be prepared in similar ways to salmon, such as searing, slow-roasting, or poaching. You can determine if it’s cooked by checking if the flesh is opaque and easily flakes.
Is it cheaper to buy a whole fish?
It is more cost-effective to purchase whole fish because it is similar to buying in bulk, resulting in a lower price per pound.
What is the most loved seafood?
The most loved seafood is shrimp, followed by salmon, tuna, tilapia, pollock, pangasius or basa, and cod, according to America’s Top 10.
Is frozen seafood cheaper than fresh?
Frozen seafood is indeed more affordable than fresh seafood, costing approximately 20 percent less. Additionally, freezing seafood allows for an extended season, enabling us to enjoy the deliciousness of summer-caught fish even in the midst of winter.
What is the healthiest and cheapest fish?
The healthiest and cheapest fish is cod, trout, sardines, crab, haddock, tuna, mussels, and prawns. Cod is a nutritious and affordable option, while trout, sardines, and crab also offer health benefits at a reasonable price. Haddock and tuna are additional choices that provide both health and affordability. Mussels are a cost-effective and sustainable seafood option that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Lastly, prawns are a low-calorie seafood with high protein content, making them a healthy and budget-friendly choice.
