Fin Fish

Branzini

scientific name:

Dicentrarchus labrax

Branzini is a silver-skinned fish that goes by many names including European sea bass, spigola, loup de mer, branzino and lubina. It has a medium-textured, delicate-flavored flesh and few small bones. It’s a prized fish in Greek, Italian, and Spanish cuisines, and is often prepared grilled, baked, poached, steamed, or braised whole.

Product pdf for download
  • 4 oz (114g) raw edible portion

  • Calories 110

  • Total Fat 3g

  • Saturated Fat 1g

  • Cholesterol 45mg

  • Sodium 75mg

  • Carbohydrates 0g

  • Protein 21g

  • Potassium 0mg

Interesting Fact

The University of Maryland is working on a long-term sustainable fish farming experiment with Branzini that looks very promising, which makes this particular Branzini a “green” fish for the future.

Source

Its habitats include estuaries, lagoons, coastal waters, and rivers. It is found in the waters in and around Europe, including the eastern Atlantic Ocean (from Norway to Senegal), the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea. Frugé Seafood imports it’s Branzini as soon as it’s available after harvest. Be sure to call ahead for your order for us to ensure that you get the freshest possible cuts.

Harvest Method

Branzini was one of the first types of fish after salmon to be farmed commercially in Europe. The most important farming countries are Greece, Turkey, Italy, Spain, Croatia, and Egypt. The annual production is some 60,000 tons and is increasing quickly.

Flavor

Mild to moderate flavored.

Texture

Medium, white flesh with few small bones. This fish is not difficult to debone after cooking.

Preparation

Branzini can be prepared grilled, baked, poached, steamed, or braised whole.

Quality Control

Fresh branzini should have a shiny skin that should be firm to the touch with no yellowing on the belly flap. This fish should be chilled immediately upon capture. The flesh should be firm and never gelatinous.

Market Segments

Greek, Italian, and Spanish restaurants as well as fine dining.