Almond Crusted Cod

When I was a kid I couldn't stand the thought of fish, I think because my initial introduction was likely to Catfish, which is very fishy tasting!

I grew up a bit and realized that there are a world of flavors in fish and there is a likely a kind everyone will like. These days I pick my fish that I will be using based off of 3 factors:

1. Sustainability: Is the catching and producing of this fish sustainable to the environment, the species itself as well as the fishers and workers that are required for the harvest.
2. Quality: What has the fish been eating? Are the waters that it comes from clean? Is it wild or caught? How fresh is the fish, how long ago was it caught? Is it fresh, frozen or previously frozen? Some of these questions will overlap a bit with the sustainability factor as well. 
3. Flavor and texture: What flavors and feel am I looking for? Do I want a mild, sweet flavor with a light flaky meat, or a deeper ocean flavor with a meaty dense meat? Am I going to be baking, grilling or poaching? Do I want to use Italian herbs or a Thai spice blend?

All of these questions can be answered with the help of a knowledgeable fish monger at a quality store. Here in Fort Collins I buy my seafood and most of my meats (if not from local farms directly) from Whole Foods (shout out to my fish monger friends!). If you would like to research more on your on, HERE is a wonderful site allowing you to find safety and sustainability information on many different types of fish.

And when it comes to preparation, there is nothing like practice! Cooking fish can be tricky, there is no doubt about that. But practice often and with a variety of types of fish and cooking methods and you will find what works best for you. Not only is that good for your culinary skills but good for your health as fish is high in protein and essential fatty acids, especially the cold water fishes such as Salmon.

This baked Icelandic Cod recipe is a perfect for those who already love fish and as an introduction for those who are weary. I recently made it for a friend who proclaimed he did not like fish, but ended up eating it and enjoying it! Score!