Recently, we have been concentrating on the war on the Asian Carp and where we are today in that battle. But there is another side to this story of the Asian Carp you may not be familiar with.
The fish is actually good to eat and is good for you. This is not to be confused with the common carp many of us are familiar with which has a muddy taste when cooked. The Asian carp, in fact, is a clean fish that feeds on plankton and algae in the upper water of rivers. It’s rich in protein and low in mercury because it doesn’t eat other fish. The tender flesh lacks a “fishy” taste, so it easily absorbs the flavors of sauces, spices, and herbs cooked with it. The man who has led the war on the Asian carp, Lyon County Judge Executive Wade White says he loves the taste of Asian Carp.
click to download audioWhen the fish is cooked, it’s easy to remove the bones. Simply filet the fish, cook it, and take out the bones. One fish can feed an entire family. As far as the nutritional benefits of Asian carp, they’re low in sodium, rank among the highest of all fish in dietary protein and are exceptionally rich in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, particularly phosphorous, vitamin B12, and zinc. Eating one fillet of Carp provides over 250 calories, around 80 grams of protein, and a healthy amount of vitamin B12 and potassium. It is good for your heart, promotes good digestion, and slows the aging process. It also enhances immunity, improves gastrointestinal health, and improves your sleep. So now I’m sold on how good this fish is for your health and there are a few places to try it.
click to download audioThe Freight House, Paducah’s sole farm-to-table restaurant has served “Kentucky Silver Carp” since the day it opened in 2015. The Two Rivers Fisheries, based out of Wickliffe, Kentucky is a source for raw Asian Carp you can cook at home.
