How to Tell if Salted Cod Is Bad (4 Steps)
Cod from the cold waters of the North Atlantic was one of Europe's major foods for several centuries. Salted and dried on the shores of Newfoundland or Norway, salt cod was traded all across Europe for trade goods including salt for the next year's fishery. Although the cod are now sadly diminished from their former numbers, salt cod remains a popular food in many parts of the world. The heavily salted fish resists spoilage but still requires a modest degree of scrutiny before it is cooked.
Things You'll Need
- Cold water
- Large bowl
Instructions
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Examine the salt cod for signs that it has come into contact with moisture. Salt cod will keep for years if properly stored, but moisture makes it vulnerable to spoilage and fermentation. Any soft or blotchy areas on the flesh, or any discoloration, usually indicates damage from moisture.
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Check the color of the cod. Properly cured cod should remain white or ivory in color, even after long-term storage. If the cod has developed a yellow or red hue, it has become oxidized or been affected by microorganisms. Discolored salt cod should be discarded.
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Smell the cod. Properly cured salt cod will have a strong smell of fish and brine, but the odor is not unpleasant. Any moldy, fermented or vinegary smells indicate spoilage, and the fish should be discarded.
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Soak the cod overnight in cold water, to begin re-hydrating it. Drain the water, and once again check for soft or discolored spots and unpleasant aromas. If no signs of spoilage are detected on the dried or soaked fish, it should be safe to use.
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