Raw Eel Belly
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Raw Eel Belly

Anguilla anguilla

Clinical Encyclopedia

Raw eel belly is a delicacy known for its rich flavor and high-fat content, often enjoyed in various cuisines. It is a source of high-quality protein and essential fatty acids.

Also known as:
Unagi (Japan)Anguilla (Italy)
Scientific NameAnguilla anguilla
Region of OriginEurope and Asia

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total38.0g
Protein
20g(53%)
Fats
18g(47%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A300 IU (10%)
Vitamin D2 µg (10%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Sodium50 mg (2%)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
High in protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health.
May improve skin health due to its high fat content, which helps maintain skin hydration.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Raw eel may carry parasites or bacteria, posing a risk of foodborne illness if not handled properly.
!High fat content may not be suitable for individuals on low-fat diets.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed raw in sushi or sashimi, ensure it is sourced from reputable suppliers to minimize health risks.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose eel that is firm to the touch, with a clean, ocean-like smell. Look for bright, shiny skin without any discoloration.

How to Store

Store raw eel in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days. If not used immediately, consider freezing.

Myths vs Realities

MythEel is a type of fish.
RealityEels are actually elongated fish but belong to a different category than typical fish.
MythEating eel is unhealthy due to its fat content.
RealityThe fats in eel are primarily healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
MythRaw eel is always dangerous to eat.
RealityWhen sourced properly, raw eel can be safe and nutritious.

Healthy Recipes

Eel Belly Ceviche with Avocado

A refreshing ceviche featuring raw eel belly marinated in citrus juices, combined with creamy avocado and vibrant herbs for a nutritious dish.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw eel belly, thinly sliced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the eel belly slices with lime and lemon juice, and let marinate for 15 minutes.
  2. 2. Add diced avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro to the marinated eel.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, mix gently, and serve chilled.

Grilled Eel Belly Salad with Citrus Dressing

A light and zesty salad featuring grilled eel belly, mixed greens, and a tangy citrus dressing for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 250g raw eel belly
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and lightly oil the grates.
  2. 2. Grill the eel belly for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  3. 3. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
  4. 4. Toss the salad greens with the dressing, top with grilled eel belly and sliced almonds, and serve.

Eel Belly Sushi Rolls with Quinoa

Healthy sushi rolls made with raw eel belly and quinoa, wrapped in nori with fresh vegetables for a nutritious twist.

Ingredients
  • 150g raw eel belly, sliced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 4 sheets nori
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat and spread a thin layer of cooked quinoa over it.
  2. 2. Place eel belly slices, cucumber, and carrot in the center of the quinoa.
  3. 3. Roll tightly using the mat, slice into pieces, and serve with soy sauce.

Spicy Eel Belly Tacos with Mango Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with raw eel belly and topped with a fresh mango salsa for a flavorful and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw eel belly, diced
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix diced eel belly with chili powder and salt, then let it marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. 2. In another bowl, combine mango, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Warm the tortillas, fill with marinated eel belly, and top with mango salsa before serving.

Eel Belly Poke Bowl with Brown Rice

A nutritious poke bowl featuring raw eel belly over brown rice, garnished with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw eel belly, cubed
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 radish, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine cubed eel belly with soy sauce and sesame oil, and let marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. 2. In a serving bowl, layer cooked brown rice, marinated eel belly, cucumber, and radish.
  3. 3. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Eel Belly and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring raw eel belly and colorful vegetables, tossed in a light soy sauce for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw eel belly, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add ginger, and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add sliced eel belly and cook for 2-3 minutes until just cooked.
  3. 3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli, stir-fry for another 5 minutes, and finish with soy sauce.

Eel Belly Carpaccio with Arugula

A sophisticated dish of raw eel belly carpaccio served with peppery arugula and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw eel belly, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan shavings for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Arrange the eel belly slices on a plate in a single layer.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the eel.
  3. 3. Top with arugula and garnish with Parmesan shavings before serving.

Eel Belly Tartar with Capers and Herbs

A refined tartar made with raw eel belly, capers, and fresh herbs, served on whole-grain crackers for a healthy appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 150g raw eel belly, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon capers, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Whole-grain crackers for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine chopped eel belly, capers, dill, chives, and Dijon mustard.
  2. 2. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. 3. Serve the tartar on whole-grain crackers as an elegant appetizer.

Eel Belly and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty hash featuring diced eel belly and sweet potatoes, sautéed with onions and spices for a nutritious breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw eel belly, diced
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add onion, and sauté until translucent.
  2. 2. Add diced sweet potato and cook for about 10 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in eel belly, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until eel is just cooked through.

Eel Belly and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mixture of quinoa, raw eel belly, and vegetables, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw eel belly, diced
  • 2 bell peppers, halved
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup corn
  • 1/2 cup black beans
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced eel belly, corn, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and place in a baking dish, then bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is raw eel safe to eat?

Yes, but it must be sourced from reputable suppliers to ensure it is free from parasites.

How should raw eel be prepared?

It is typically served as sushi or sashimi, sliced thinly and served with soy sauce.

What are the health benefits of eating eel?

Eel is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, promoting heart health and muscle repair.

Can pregnant women eat raw eel?

It is generally advised to avoid raw fish during pregnancy due to the risk of foodborne illness.

How can I tell if eel is fresh?

Fresh eel should have a clean smell, firm texture, and bright color.

What dishes can I make with eel?

Eel can be used in sushi, grilled dishes, or served in a sauce.

Is eel high in mercury?

Eel has lower mercury levels compared to some other fish, but moderation is still recommended.

How should eel be stored?

Keep raw eel refrigerated and consume it within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.