Best and Worst Methods You Can Use When Defrosting Fish

Tilapia
Image via rojoimages/depositphotos

If you like eating fish, but don’t want to go into all the trouble that comes with preparing it fresh, store-bought frozen fish is your best bet. There are many methods you can use to defrost it, and here are some that you should try and others that you should avoid at all costs.

Worst – Microwave

Microwaving fish may be the fastest way to defrost it, but it’s also the worst. It will leave you with a smelly microwave, and it’s basically a safety hazard because the bacteria will multiply as parts of your fish slowly start cooking in the microwave.

Best – Overnight Defrosting

Instead of waiting for the next day to defrost your fish, move it from your freezer to your refrigerator. Leave it there overnight because it’s a much safer option than leaving it at room temperature.

Worst – Hot Water

Most people use hot water when defrosting fish to speed up the process, but this method should be avoided for the same reason as the microwave. The bacteria will develop quicker in warm water, and the texture of your fish could also change.

Best – Cold Water

Replacing hot water with cold is a much better option because it’s not a safety hazard. Simply place your fish, still packed inside moisture-proof packaging, in a shallow dish and cover it with cold water until it’s defrosted.