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Steamed Eel Cheek
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Steamed Eel Cheek

Anguilla anguilla

Clinical Encyclopedia

Steamed eel cheek is a delicacy known for its rich flavor and high protein content, making it a nutritious seafood choice. It is particularly valued in various cuisines for its unique texture and taste.

Also known as:
Eel CheekAnguilla Cheek
Scientific NameAnguilla anguilla
Region of OriginEurope and Asia

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories150 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total27.0g
Protein
20g(74%)
Fats
7g(26%)
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 B128 µg (133%)
Vitamin D2 µg (10%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium30 µg (55%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
High in vitamins B12 and D, crucial for energy metabolism and bone health.
Provides selenium, an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
!Individuals with seafood allergies should avoid eel and related products.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed steamed to retain moisture and flavor. Pair with light sauces or vegetables for a balanced meal.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fresh eel cheek that is firm to the touch and has a clean, ocean-like smell. Avoid any that appear slimy or have an off odor.

How to Store

Store eel cheek in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container.

Myths vs Realities

MythEel is not safe to eat.
RealityEel is safe to eat when sourced from reputable suppliers and cooked properly.
MythAll eels are high in mercury.
RealityMercury levels vary; it's important to check the source and type of eel.
MythEel is only eaten in Asian cuisine.
RealityEel is enjoyed in various cuisines worldwide, including European and American dishes.

Healthy Recipes

Steamed Eel Cheek with Lemon Herb Quinoa

A light and nutritious dish featuring tender steamed eel cheek served over a bed of lemon-infused quinoa and fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook it in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. Once cooked, fluff quinoa with a fork and mix in lemon zest, juice, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve the steamed eel cheek atop the lemon herb quinoa.

Eel Cheek Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Delicious soft tacos filled with steamed eel cheek and topped with a refreshing avocado salsa for a healthy twist.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 ripe avocado (diced)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 lime (juiced)
  • Salt and cilantro to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet until pliable.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine avocado, tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, salt, and cilantro to create the salsa.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with steamed eel cheek and top with avocado salsa before serving.

Asian-Inspired Eel Cheek Salad

A vibrant salad featuring steamed eel cheek, mixed greens, and a sesame-ginger dressing for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumber.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger to make the dressing.
  3. 3. Top the salad with steamed eel cheek, drizzle with dressing, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Eel Cheek and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring steamed eel cheek and colorful vegetables, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 carrot (sliced)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot, stir-frying until tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Add steamed eel cheek and soy sauce, tossing to combine, and serve hot.

Eel Cheek and Sweet Potato Cakes

Crispy and flavorful cakes made from steamed eel cheek and sweet potatoes, served with a tangy yogurt sauce.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 1 medium sweet potato (cooked and mashed)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potato, steamed eel cheek, breadcrumbs, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small patties and pan-fry in a little oil until golden brown on both sides.
  3. 3. Serve with a sauce made from Greek yogurt and lemon juice.

Mediterranean Eel Cheek Pasta

A healthy pasta dish featuring steamed eel cheek, cherry tomatoes, olives, and spinach, tossed in a light garlic sauce.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 200g whole grain pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/2 cup black olives (sliced)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  2. 2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, then add cherry tomatoes and olives.
  3. 3. Stir in spinach until wilted, then toss in the cooked pasta and steamed eel cheek before serving.

Eel Cheek and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A low-carb bowl featuring steamed eel cheek served over cauliflower rice with a mix of sautéed vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 1 head cauliflower (riced)
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers (diced)
  • 1/2 cup green peas
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Green onions for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Rice the cauliflower using a food processor and sauté in sesame oil until tender.
  2. 2. In another pan, stir-fry bell peppers and green peas with soy sauce.
  3. 3. Serve the sautéed vegetables over cauliflower rice topped with steamed eel cheek and garnish with green onions.

Eel Cheek and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of steamed eel cheek, spinach, and quinoa, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 2 large bell peppers (halved and seeded)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, steamed eel cheek, chopped spinach, feta, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and bake for 25 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Eel Cheek Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls filled with steamed eel cheek, avocado, and cucumber, perfect for a light meal or snack.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 2 cups sushi rice (cooked)
  • 4 sheets nori
  • 1 avocado (sliced)
  • 1 cucumber (julienned)
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it.
  2. 2. Place steamed eel cheek, avocado, and cucumber in a line across the rice.
  3. 3. Roll tightly, slice into pieces, and serve with soy sauce.

Eel Cheek and Chickpea Salad

A protein-packed salad featuring steamed eel cheek and chickpeas, tossed with a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 200g steamed eel cheek
  • 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1 lemon (juiced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, arugula, diced red onion, and steamed eel cheek.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is eel cheek?

Eel cheek refers to the tender meat found in the cheek area of the eel, known for its rich flavor.

How is eel cheek prepared?

Eel cheek is typically steamed or grilled to enhance its natural flavors.

Is eel cheek healthy?

Yes, it is high in protein and contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.

Can I eat eel cheek if I have a seafood allergy?

No, individuals with seafood allergies should avoid eel and its products.

Where can I buy eel cheek?

Eel cheek can be found at specialty seafood markets or Asian grocery stores.

How does eel cheek taste?

Eel cheek has a rich, buttery flavor with a unique texture that many find appealing.

What dishes can I make with eel cheek?

Eel cheek can be served in sushi, grilled, or as part of a seafood stew.

Is eel cheek sustainable?

Sustainability varies by source; check for certifications when purchasing.