Origins of codfish
Codfish origins
Codfish is a regular presence at the Portuguese table and a key element of the traditional cuisine for a long time. However, this fish is not from Portugal. The Portuguese “faithful friend” is caught in the cold waters of the North Pole, mainly in Norway and Iceland.
Discover the different origins of codfish and what distinguishes them by reading this article.
Origins of codfish: Norway, Iceland, Faroe Islands or Canada?
Norwegian codfish (gadus morhua)
This codfish is caught in the norwegian waters and has usually better splinters and higher fat content. It is the most predominant in the portuguese market and in our restaurants.
Icelandic codfish (gadus morhua)
Codfish coming from iceland has higher consistency and lower fat content when compared with norwegian codfish. Due to its consistency, it is typically grilled, offering a perfect loin or steak. When cured for a long period of time, icelandic codfish gets a yellowish colour and becomes drier. It is sold as dried codfish and stands out in supermarkets due to its more balanced aspect.
Faroe islands (gadus morhua)
Codfish caught in faroe islands waters gathers the main characteristics of the codfish coming from iceland and norway. Its aspect and consistency are similar to icelandic codfish, but the fat content and succulence are similar to norwegian codfish. For this reason, it is a top-quality codfish, perfect to be grilled.
Canada (gadus morhua)
Codfish coming from canada, also known as gadus morhua, has a higher fat content when compared with norwegian codfish. This species is known by its smooth and soft splinters.
In conclusion, although portugal is a country whose waters contain a wealth of fish, the portuguese “faithful friend” is caught away from the portuguese coast and presents distinct characteristics according to its sea of origin.
