The Marvels of Atlantic Salmon: A Protein Powerhouse

Atlantic Salmon, a name synonymous with health and taste, is not just a fish but a symbol of nutrition and a sustainable food source.

Health Benefits of Atlantic Salmon

If you are looking for a healthy protein source for your menu, Atlantic salmon should be your go-to choice. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, it helps reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease risk factors for diseases. Additionally, it is an excellent source of vitamin D, selenium, and B vitamins which are crucial for maintaining optimal health.

Comparing Atlantic and Pacific Salmon

The taste can vary based on diet, habitat, and species, but generally, wild Pacific salmon is said to have a stronger flavour and more red-orange flesh, while Atlantic salmon has a milder flavour and paler flesh.

When comparing Atlantic and Pacific salmon, one cannot ignore the flavour variations among the five wild species of Pacific salmon. Each species brings a unique flavour profile to the table, from the rich, buttery Sockeye to the delicate, mild Pink salmon. However, the availability of wild Pacific salmon is highly seasonal and not available year-round. In contrast, the Atlantic salmon, renowned for its mildly sweet flavour and delicate texture, is readily available throughout the year thanks to aquaculture.

The Positive Side of Aquaculture

Aquaculture, in particular, plays a significant role in making Atlantic salmon accessible to consumers worldwide. It has revolutionized the seafood industry by providing a constant, year-round supply of high-quality fish. Moreover, it contributes to global food security and economic growth.

The Global Sourcing of Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon is sourced from many countries around the world. However, Canadian aquaculture stands out due to its exceptional levels of sustainability and traceability that other countries often lack. Canada's rigorous regulations ensure the health of the fish and the environment, making it a trustworthy source for Atlantic salmon.

Cooking Versatility

Its distinct buttery and rich taste, coupled with a firm and flaky texture, make it an excellent option for grilling, baking, or broiling. Not only does it deliver exceptional flavour, but it is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to create both indulgent and light dishes to suit any culinary vision.

To tantalize your customers taste buds, here are a few ideas:
grilled salmon with roasted potatoes and steamed vegetables,
pan-seared salmon with mango avocado salsa,
baked salmon with lemon caper sauce and fettuccine,
salmon Caesar salad with homemade croutons,
and salmon and sweet potato shepherds pie.

From its unforgettable taste to its limitless serving possibilities, fresh Atlantic salmon is undeniably a must-have for any establishment.

With a sprinkle of creativity and a dash of experimentation in the kitchen, your restaurant can provide your customers with an unforgettable dining experience.

Did you know?

Grille and Galley Atlantic salmon is from the Canadian east coast, ensuring the freshest product for our customers. The Canadian product is not only fresh but also versatile. It comes in whole fish and various sizes of fillets, catering to different culinary needs. Custom portions are also available. Talk to your Territory Manager for more information.

Waffle Wonderland:

Delightful Dishes for a Memorable Mother's Day Brunch

Maximizing efficiency while delivering exceptional culinary experiences is the key to managing the bustling energy of Mother's Day-one of the busiest days in a restaurant s calendar.

A delicious, time-saving suggestion that may work for your Mother's Day menu is pre-made Belgian waffles. They are more than just a time-saving convenience; they are the canvas for an array of unique and tantalizing toppings that will set your establishment apart. By using pre-made waffles, you significantly reduce preparation time and kitchen chaos, allowing your team to focus on crafting exquisite toppings and delivering impeccable service. Moreover, these waffles ensure consistency in both taste and presentation.

This Mother's Day, let these five waffle creations dazzle your clientele, leaving them with a memorable dining experience that they will fondly associate with your restaurant.

Rise n Shine Waffle Delight

For the traditional breakfast lovers, offer waffles topped with crispy bacon and a perfectly cooked over-easy egg. The rich, runny yolk adds an indulgent touch, turning a simple waffle into a hearty meal that will keep your guests fueled for their Mother's Day activities.

Seaside Brunch Waffle Delicacy

Elevate your brunch menu with this sophisticated take on the classic waffle. Start a layer of tangy cream cheese. Top with delicate slices of smoked salmon, adding a luxurious, smoky flavour that is irresistible. Add thin slices of avocado for taste and a pop of colour.

Banana Bliss Almond Crunch Waffles

A light and refreshing option, this dish combines the sweetness of bananas with the tanginess of yogurt and the crunch of almonds. It is a healthy, satisfying choice that caters to the health-conscious guests and those seeking a lighter brunch option.

Southern Charm Chicken Waffles

This Southern classic is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy fried chicken atop a waffle creates a delightful contrast of textures. Drizzled with a touch of honey or maple syrup, this dish offers a perfect balance of savoury and sweet.

Orchard Harvest Honey-Nut Waffles

For a sweet end to the brunch, serve waffles topped with baked apples, a sprinkle of crunchy nuts, and a drizzle of honey. This dessert-like dish adds a festive touch to the menu, and the comforting flavours are a fitting tribute to the comforting presence of mothers.

The Delights of Ontario Rainbow Trout: A Freshwater Gem

Nestled amidst the bountiful waters of Ontario’s lakes, rainbow trout has become a prized catch and culinary delight. With the abundance of freshwater resources, Ontario offers an ideal habitat for this cold-water fish to thrive. Let’s dive into the world of Ontario rainbow trout, exploring its characteristics, culinary appeal, and recipe suggestions:

The Splendor of Ontario’s Waterways

Ontario’s vast network of lakes provides an ideal environment for rainbow trout to
flourish. With clear waters and abundant food sources, these lakes nurture healthy populations of rainbow trout.

Culinary Delights of Ontario Rainbow Trout

Its delicate pink hue and mild flavour lend themselves well to a variety of cooking techniques, allowing chefs to showcase their creativity. The high oil content in the fish enhances its tenderness and imparts a rich, buttery taste.

Recipe Suggestions

• Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout with Lemon Butter Sauce: A classic preparation that highlights the natural flavours of the fish. Served with a tangy lemon butter sauce and accompanied by roasted vegetables, this dish offers a delightful balance of freshness and richness.

• Grilled Rainbow Trout with Herb Crust: A simple yet elegant preparation that involves encrusting the fish with a blend of fresh herbs before grilling. The charred exterior adds a smoky depth of flavour, while the moist and flaky flesh remains the star of the dish.

• Rainbow Trout Ceviche: A refreshing and light option for those seeking a vibrant and zesty experience. The fish is marinated in citrus juices, mixed with diced vegetables, and seasoned with herbs.

• Roasted Whole Stuffed Trout: A tantalizing blend of flavours. By stuffing the trout with aromatic ingredients like lemon, garlic, onion, and fresh herbs, then roasting it to perfection, this recipe promises a delightful and flavourful dining experience. Visit caudlescatchseafood.com for the full recipe.

Don’t forget - Highlight the farm-to-table journey through your marketing channels: Emphasize that the rainbow trout is sourced from Ontario’s pristine lakes, connecting customers with the region’s natural beauty and sustainable fishing practices.

A Beginner’s Guide to Shucking Oysters

Unlocking the Delicacy of the Sea

Oysters (Flanagan code 230081), with their unique briny flavour and delicate texture, have been considered a culinary delight for centuries. These bivalve mollusks offer a taste of the sea, with each variety possessing its own distinct characteristics. 

Tools You’ll Need:

• Oyster knife: A short, sturdy knife with a pointed tip and a thick blade (Flanagan code: 801611, Browne Oyster Knife).
• Cut-resistant glove: To protect your hand while shucking (Flanagan code: 807868, Extra Large Metal Mesh Glove/807865 Medium Metal Mesh Glove).
• Cutting board: A stable surface to work on.

Safety Precautions:

Shucking oysters requires a certain level of caution, follow these safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Secure the oyster firmly: Use the mesh glove to hold the oyster in place, ensuring it doesn’t slip during shucking.
• Protect your hand: Always keep your non-dominant hand behind your back in a secure position away from the knife’s path.
• Be gentle: Apply steady, controlled pressure instead of forceful motions to prevent injury.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shucking Oysters:

• Prepare your workspace: Lay a clean kitchen towel or damp cloth on the cutting board to stabilize the oysters and catch any liquid.
• Identify the hinge: The hinge is the pointed end of the oyster that connects the two shells.
• Insert the knife: Hold the oyster with the cupped side down, ensuring the hinge is facing you. Gently insert the tip of the oyster knife into the hinge, applying light pressure.
• Twist and pry: Wiggle the knife back and forth while applying downward pressure until you feel the hinge pop open.
• Sever the muscle: Once the hinge is open, slide the knife along the top shell to sever the muscle that connects the oyster to the shell.
• Remove the top shell: Carefully lift off the top shell, taking care not to spill any of the precious oyster liquor.
• Free the oyster: Slide the knife blade under the oyster to release it from the bottom shell, ensuring it remains intact.
• Serve and enjoy: Place the freshly shucked oysters on a bed of crushed ice or rock salt, and serve with traditional accompaniments like lemon wedges, mignonette sauce, or a dash of hot sauce.

Oysters for the Holiday Season:

Serving oysters during the holiday season can elevate dining experiences and add a touch of indulgence. Here are a few reasons why they make a fantastic addition to holiday menus:

• Festive demand: Oyster consumption increases significantly during the holiday season, making them a sought-after delicacy that can attract diners craving special culinary experiences.
• Symbolism and elegance: Oysters embody luxury, sophistication, and celebration. Their inclusion in holiday menus reflects opulence and adds a touch of elegance to any dining occasion.
• Versatility and creativity: Oysters offer endless possibilities for creative preparations and presentations. From classic Rockefeller or Kilpatrick variations to innovative ceviches and briny shooters, oysters can be adapted to suit a variety of taste preferences.

Plating Suggestions

Showcase the beauty and flavours of oysters at your holiday gatherings with these plating suggestions: 

• Classic Mignonette Oysters: Serve freshly shucked oysters on a bed of ice, accompanied by a tangy mignonette sauce made with shallots, vinegar, and cracked black pepper.
• Oyster Shooters: Combine freshly shucked oysters with a splash of vodka, tomato juice, horseradish, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing and flavourful shooter.
• Oyster Rockefeller: Elevate the classic Rockefeller preparation by topping the oysters with a blend of spinach, bacon, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, then broiling until golden and bubbling.

Remember, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, shucking oysters is an art that requires practice and patience. So, grab your oyster knife, put on your shucking gloves, and embark on a culinary adventure into the world of these delectable bivalves.

Happy shucking and bon appétit!

Tips & Tricks on how to use Frozen Vegetables

Frozen vegetables are the most economical, time-saving and practical option for operators. With good preparation and storage practices, the results are similar to cooking with fresh vegetables. These vegetables are ready to be cooked on the spot! They are pre-cut, pre-washed and can help you and your team save tons of time in the kitchen. They can be pre-portioned and stored helping minimize waste. However, they sometimes have bad press! People think their texture is blah or their colour is washed out. Today, we’ll discuss the best way to prepare and cook frozen vegetables to enhance their quality and get the best taste, as well as other things to consider when preparing them.

Preparation:

Frozen vegetables should NEVER be thawed before preparing them. To maximize their flavour and performance, they should be frozen when cooking.

Ideal cooking methods:

• COMBINATION OVEN: cooking vegetables at 240 °F (116 °C) for 3 to 4 minutes is excellent. They can be maintained at a temperature of 140 °F (60 °C) for more than an hour.
• STIR FRY: vegetables should be steamed or boiled for no more than one minute, just enough to thaw before sauté on high heat in a skillet, wok or on a grilling plate with a small amount of oil.
• BOILING: to preserve the colour and flavor of vegetables, cook them quickly in a chicken broth or other meat broth that will be kept for the preparation of soups or sauces (maximum 4 minutes depending on the cut and texture) so they will keep their appearance and firmness. It is not recommended to boil too many vegetables at a time, and is recommended to start over 2 or 3 times so the liquid does not cool or stop boiling. 
• Frozen vegetables can also be cooked using steam or baked in an oven to get a more crunchy texture. To do so, spread the frozen vegetables on a baking sheet and sprinkle with olive oil and spices of your choice. Bake at 220°C for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring the vegetables halfway through.

For optimal results, minimize the thawing time of your frozen vegetables. When cooking, use only what you need and store the rest immediately in the freezer, helping prevent potential quality and performance loss. Also, don’t overcook: frozen vegetables cook quicker than fresh produce, so be careful not to overcook them. Most of them can  be ready in as little as 4 minutes at high temperature. It is strongly recommended to follow the cooking instructions on the package and check for doneness frequently.

If you plan to prepare frozen vegetables to serve immediately, fully cook them. If you need to prepare them in advance for an event, do not cook them completely so the colour and flavour are preserved.

NOTE: ALL the Arctic Gardens frozen vegetables are blanched however, they cannot be used “as is” i.e. directly from freezer to plate. They have to be cooked thoroughly before usage.

Other things to consider:

• Available year-round; frozen vegetables are available throughout the year, regardless of the season. This allows you to offer a wide variety of vegetables and to have a steady supply on hand all the time.
• They are processed or quick-frozen immediately after harvest; which locks in the goodness, freshness, flavor, colour, and nutritional value;
• Unlike fresh “out of season“ vegetables which deteriorate in nutritional value after being hastily picked, they retain their optimal, consistent nutritional value capable of being transported and stored for long periods of time;
• Extended shelf life; frozen vegetables have an extended shelf life compared to fresh vegetables, which can reduce waste costs and save money;
• No waste; two pounds of flash-frozen vegetables equals two pounds of vegetables on the plate. Compare this to fresh vegetables, which have a much lower net weight once they’ve been trimmed, cleaned, and/or peeled.

Here are some delicious and trendy recipes perfect for the summer season you can try:

Green beans, fennel and citrus salad

Japanese-style Salad with Udon Noodles, beans and Sesame dressing

Grilled Chicken Kalenbanzo Salad

We encourage you to discover (or re-discover!) Arctic Gardens product portfolio which offers a wide variety of options; from the reliable, foundational products to a fine selection of on-trend and specialty ingredients, you can find what you are looking for.