Steamed Eel
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Steamed Eel

Anguilla anguilla

Clinical Encyclopedia

Steamed eel is a delicacy known for its rich flavor and high nutritional value, particularly in protein and healthy fats. It is often enjoyed in various cuisines around the world.

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)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Iron1 mg (6%)
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 protein content supports muscle repair and growth, making it an excellent choice for athletes.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A and D, which are crucial for immune function and bone health.
Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High levels of mercury can be present in some eel species, which may pose health risks if consumed in excess.
!Individuals with seafood allergies should avoid eel.

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 eels that are firm to the touch and have a clean, ocean-like smell. Avoid any that appear slimy or have a strong fishy odor.

How to Store

Keep eels refrigerated and consume within a few days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

Myths vs Realities

MythEel is not a fish.
RealityEel is indeed classified as a fish, belonging to the order Anguilliformes.
MythEating eel is unhealthy.
RealityEel is nutritious and can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll eels are high in mercury.
RealityWhile some species may have higher mercury levels, many eels are safe to eat in moderation.

Healthy Recipes

Herbed Steamed Eel with Quinoa Salad

This dish features tender steamed eel infused with fresh herbs, served alongside a vibrant quinoa salad packed with vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then cook it in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. While the quinoa cooks, season the eel fillet with salt, pepper, and chopped herbs, then steam for about 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, and mix well. Serve the steamed eel on top of the quinoa salad.

Spicy Ginger Steamed Eel with Broccoli

A zesty dish featuring steamed eel marinated in ginger and served with vibrant steamed broccoli for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the eel fillet in ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes for at least 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Steam the marinated eel for 10-12 minutes until cooked through, while steaming the broccoli for about 5 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Serve the steamed eel on a plate with broccoli on the side, drizzling any remaining marinade over the top.

Mediterranean Steamed Eel with Couscous

A delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring steamed eel served over fluffy couscous mixed with olives and sun-dried tomatoes.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Prepare couscous by bringing vegetable broth to a boil, then stirring in couscous and letting it sit covered for 5 minutes.
  2. 2. Steam the eel fillet for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.
  3. 3. Fluff the couscous with a fork, then mix in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Serve the steamed eel on top of the couscous.

Asian Style Steamed Eel with Bok Choy

A flavorful Asian-inspired dish featuring steamed eel paired with tender bok choy and a soy-ginger sauce.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 bok choy, halved
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger to create a marinade, then marinate the eel for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Steam the marinated eel for 10-12 minutes and steam bok choy for about 5 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Serve the eel on a plate with bok choy on the side, garnished with sesame seeds.

Lemon Herb Steamed Eel with Asparagus

A refreshing dish with steamed eel seasoned with lemon and herbs, served alongside crisp asparagus for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season the eel with lemon zest, juice, dill, salt, and pepper, then steam for 10-12 minutes.
  2. 2. Steam asparagus for about 5 minutes until bright green and tender.
  3. 3. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and serve alongside the steamed eel.

Coconut Curry Steamed Eel with Cauliflower Rice

A unique dish featuring steamed eel cooked in a coconut curry sauce, served over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 head cauliflower, grated
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk and red curry paste, bring to a simmer, then add the eel and cook for 10-12 minutes.
  2. 2. Meanwhile, steam grated cauliflower for about 5 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Serve the eel over cauliflower rice, drizzled with curry sauce and garnished with cilantro.

Garlic Lemon Steamed Eel with Spinach

A simple yet delicious dish featuring steamed eel with garlic and lemon, served on a bed of sautéed spinach.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 200g fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the eel with garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes, then steam for 10-12 minutes.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté spinach until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve the steamed eel on a bed of sautéed spinach.

Pineapple Salsa Steamed Eel Tacos

A fun and healthy twist on tacos, featuring steamed eel topped with a fresh pineapple salsa in lettuce wraps.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 1 cup pineapple, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
  • Lettuce leaves for wrapping
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam the eel for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve the steamed eel in lettuce leaves topped with pineapple salsa.

Steamed Eel with Tomato Basil Sauce

A delicious and healthy dish featuring steamed eel topped with a fresh tomato basil sauce, served with whole grain pasta.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 200g whole grain pasta
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook whole grain pasta according to package instructions.
  2. 2. Steam the eel for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.
  3. 3. In a skillet, heat olive oil, add cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, and cook until tomatoes are soft. Serve the eel over pasta topped with the tomato basil sauce.

Steamed Eel with Avocado and Mango Salad

A refreshing salad featuring steamed eel served with creamy avocado and sweet mango for a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients
  • 300g fresh eel fillet
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Mixed greens for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam the eel for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine avocado, mango, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve the steamed eel on a bed of mixed greens topped with the avocado and mango salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best way to cook eel?

Steaming is recommended to preserve its delicate flavor and texture.

Is eel healthy to eat?

Yes, eel is rich in protein and healthy fats, but should be consumed in moderation due to potential mercury content.

How often can I eat eel?

It is advisable to limit consumption to once a week to minimize mercury exposure.

Can I eat eel if I have a seafood allergy?

No, individuals with seafood allergies should avoid eel.

What are the nutritional benefits of eel?

Eel is high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins like A and D.

How should I store leftover eel?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.

What dishes can I make with eel?

Eel can be used in sushi, grilled dishes, or served with rice and vegetables.

Is eel safe for pregnant women?

Pregnant women should consult their doctor before consuming eel due to mercury concerns.