With an interesting name like dogfish, it is no wonder people are curious about this fish. Besides, the fact that this fish is part of the Sand Shark species does make it even more interesting. Therefore, we will not be surprised if you are one of the people wanting to know if you can eat a dogfish.
Dogfish can certainly be eaten. In fact, if you care to ask around, you are sure to find some people who would consider dogfish meat to be one of the most delicious delicacies. Dogfish is most common in Europe. They use dogfish meat mostly to prepare their “Fish and chips” dish.
However, if you are someone who never tried it before, then the weird name and its relation to sharks might leave you a bit confused and uncertain. Well, that is okay. You can always read our article to clear out all your doubts. In the article, we have tried to give you a clear idea about any questions you might have about dogfish in general.
What Is Dogfish?
Scientific Name: Squalus Acanthias
Also Called: Spurdog, Mud Shark, or Piked Dogfish
Dogfish have an appearance that is quite similar to eels. However, if you see a dogfish and think of a prehistoric aquatic vertebra, you will not be the only one. They are basically coastal sharks, though, unlike the usual sharks we imagine, dogfish do not tend to grow more than 5 feet in length.
Dogfish have blunt teeth and even blunter snouts. They have a special pigment cell called melanophores. This pigment cell gives them the ability to change their colors and camouflage themselves to match the color of the bottom.
Dogfish got their quite an interesting name from the way they behave in water. These sharks may be pretty small, but they can be quite aggressive while hunting their prey. They have been given the name “Dogfish”, because, similar to them, dogfish also gather in a big groups and basically hunt their prey in packs.
Different Types Of Dogfish
There are many different types of dogfish out there, such as spiked dogfish, spurdogs, mandarin dogfish, roughskin spurdogs etc. People often call the spiked dogfish the Cape Shark or the spiny dogfish. The reason behind the name is quite literal. They have two spines instead of one, though they do not have any anal fin.
There is also the smooth dogfish. They are often called the dusky smoothhound, a tribute to them being a hound-shark species. This is the type of dogfish that has become quite popular as seafood.
If you look for dogfish recipes, you might find that most of them are about smooth dogfish and not spiny ones. However, do not worry if you want to enjoy the spiked dogfish. If you look for them, you are sure to find lots of recipes for them as well.
What Does A Dogfish Taste Like?
Even though it is supposed to be quite famous seafood, you still might want to be aware of what you are going to taste before trying it. Well, we did our research and found the answer for you.
A dogfish is not a fish that looks appetizing when you look at it. However, looks can be deceiving. Dogfish are not only edible but also quite delicious as well. They have a mild and sweet flavor as well as dense meat. All of which makes them a delight to cook with.
The fish meat can get a bit flaky while cooking. However, this is easily resolved by cooking them as fish fillets, which helps them maintain a firm texture. Fish tacos, fish and chips, fillets, stews, and soups are just a few of the many ways you can prepare dogfish.
Thanks to its fishy flavor being mild and not too strong, dogfish meat goes well with many recipes and can be quite delicious. Moreover, if you want, you even add a bit of lime or lemon juice to get a slightly different taste.
Related: What does Crawfish Taste Like?
Can Dogfish Be Eaten Raw?
While there may be many different and delicious ways to cook a fish, some people still want to know if it can be eaten raw. This is mainly because of dishes such as sushi, ceviche etc. Well, some fishes can surely be eaten raw. But now the question is: does a dogfish fall under this category?
Unfortunately, it does not. Dogfish meats have a mild flavor and thus are highly delicious seafood. In fact, they will most probably be safe to be eaten raw. However, you are really unlikely to like them unless they are properly cooked and prepared.
Related: Can You Eat Mahi Mahi Raw?
Are Dogfish Healthy To Eat?
Just because something is edible and delicious, it does not mean that it would be good for your health as well. However, this is not a philosophy you need to be concerned with when it comes to dogfish.
Dogfish meat is not only safe, edible and delicious, but it is also quite healthy for you. They are a good source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B6 and B12, as well as selenium. Thus, you can let go of all your fear and enjoy these delicious fish meats to your heart’s content.
Final Words
If you read the entire article, we are positive you got more than the answer you came looking for. In this article, we have tried our best to inform you about dogfish and their possibility of being your next favorite meal.
As a fish, dogfish is certainly interesting. But more than that, they are absolutely delicious. They are safe to eat and even healthy for you.
Related: Eat Land Crabs: Safe And Healthy
Moreover, you will find different types of available dogfish, and there are many different ways to cook and enjoy them as well. So, what are you waiting for? Go out and make sure to enjoy this delicacy!
