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Where Can I Find Sustainable Fish in South Africa?
Hey there! Are you interested in finding sustainable fish in South Africa? Well, you’ve come to the right place. I’m here to guide you on your quest for eco-friendly seafood options. So, let’s dive in!
When it comes to choosing sustainable fish, it’s crucial to consider a few factors. First and foremost, we need to look at the fishing methods used. Some fishing techniques can harm our oceans and marine life, while others are more environmentally friendly.
One key factor to keep in mind is whether the fish you’re looking for is wild-caught or farm-raised. Wild-caught fish can have a significant impact on marine ecosystems if not harvested responsibly. On the other hand, farm-raised fish can pose challenges related to pollution and the use of antibiotics.
So, how can we ensure our seafood comes from sustainable sources? Well, luckily for us, there are certifications and labels that can help guide our choices. One such certification is the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), which ensures that the fish you’re buying comes from a sustainable fishery. This means the fish populations are healthy, the fishing practices minimize environmental impact, and there is an effective management system in place.
Additionally, you might want to consider seeking out fish that is locally sourced. By choosing fish that comes from nearby waters, you can reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and support local fishermen and their communities.
Now, you may be wondering, where can I find these sustainably caught fish in South Africa? Well, you’re in luck! South Africa has a range of seafood markets, grocery stores, and even online platforms that offer sustainable fish options.
If you prefer shopping in person, you can visit local seafood markets or fishmongers and ask them about their sourcing practices. Many of these establishments take pride in offering sustainable seafood and will be happy to share information with you.
For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, there are several platforms that specialize in delivering sustainable fish straight to your doorstep. With a simple click of a button, you can have responsibly sourced seafood delivered to your home.
Remember, by choosing sustainable fish, you’re not only protecting our oceans and marine life but also supporting the livelihoods of communities that rely on fishing. So, why not make a difference with your food choices?
In conclusion, finding sustainable fish in South Africa is possible if you know where to look. By considering factors like fishing methods, certifications, and local sourcing, you can make informed choices that contribute to a more sustainable future. Happy seafood hunting!
Living in South Africa, our culinary traditions have always been influenced by our close ties to the ocean. However, when it comes to actually catching and enjoying the bounty of the sea, things are a bit more challenging.
The Karoo, a region that was once covered by the sea, may seem like a natural place for ocean lovers. But in reality, the people here have adapted to a life on land. We prefer the endless expanse of rocks and soil over the deep blue sea, and we rely on what we can grow and harvest on solid ground.
You’d think we would admit to our lack of sea legs and focus on what we know best. But no, we Karoo folk are a stubborn bunch.
That’s why my dad and his brothers-in-law once made a bold decision – to buy a boat. It was right before our annual family vacation, and they were dead set on it. “You know what?” they said, “We’ll catch and eat so many fish that the boat will pay for itself!”
My dad firmly believed that owning our very own boat would mean no more takeout fish and chips for us. From then on, every fish on our table would be caught by a family member from our very own boat.
We kids weren’t thrilled about the idea, and the wives weren’t impressed either.
And they had every right to be skeptical. On the very first day we were supposed to set sail, Uncle Willem tossed the boat keys to my dad on the harbor jetty. With a swift motion, my dad reached up to catch the keys, but he missed. We all stood there in shock as the small, round keyring with its two tiny keys plummeted through the air and disappeared into the deep blue sea.
It took us almost five hours of diving, but my brother finally emerged triumphantly with the keys in his hand. By then, we were all sitting on the deck, sipping beer and lazily casting our fishing lines into the harbor.
After the boat was sold, we never had homemade fish and chips again. Instead, we stuck to what we knew – grilling Karoo lamb chops on the barbecue.
South Africa boasts a diverse marine landscape, with a coastline stretching for 2,500 kilometers. From the west, where crayfish and snoek dominate the seas, to the tropical oceans in the east, there is an abundance of marine life.
Along this coastline, there are many fishing communities that have mastered the art of harnessing the sea’s resources. In an ideal world, we would source the fish for our fish and chips directly from these communities, but that’s not always possible.
Our oceanic bounty is at risk, endangering the abundance we enjoy.
In the early 1900s, a man named C Louis Leipoldt, who was a South African food expert and enthusiast, noticed that the fish population in the sea was in trouble. He mentioned in his book called Cape Cookery that there was a time when the Cape Town fish market had an abundance of fish during the fishing season. People could easily get a bunch of mullets without any hassle. The fish were plentiful, fresh, and affordable. But things have changed over time.
Today, the situation is entirely different. Fish, which should be one of the most affordable and easily available food options, has become quite expensive. It is not as fresh as it used to be, and there is not enough supply to meet the growing demand. This shift in the availability of fish has had a significant impact on the market and the people who rely on fish as a food source.
It is truly astonishing to think about how things have changed in just a short period of time. The ocean, which was once a bountiful source of food, is now struggling to maintain a healthy fish population. We need to reflect on our actions and consider how they have contributed to this situation.
As individuals, we have the power to make a difference. By making sustainable choices, supporting local fishermen, and advocating for responsible fishing practices, we can help protect the fish population and ensure that future generations will have access to this valuable food source. It’s essential for us to take action now before it’s too late.
In recent times, the concern about overfishing has reached crisis levels due to a combination of massive foreign trawlers and local poaching. This situation is particularly dire along the South African coastline, which has become an easy target for exploiters because of the lack of regulation for many years.
As consumers, we often unknowingly contribute to this problem by supporting commercial looters when we buy fish without knowing its true source. It can be difficult for an ordinary person to know whether the fish they are eating is really what the chef claims it to be. It all looks the same once it’s on the plate.
Fortunately, there are experts dedicated to promoting sustainability and protecting our oceans’ ecosystems. In doing so, they also strive to safeguard the livelihoods of local fishing communities.
Have you ever heard of Abalobi? It’s an organization with a cool app that connects people who catch fish with customers like you and me. They started out as a group doing research on fishing quotas, but then they thought, why not use technology to connect fishermen with buyers? It was a brilliant idea!
Ever since 2015, this initiative has shed light on how fish from the ocean makes its way to our plates. And it has given the hardworking fishermen at sea more control. “Before, the fishermen had no idea what the market wanted, so they couldn’t know how much they would get paid when they returned to shore,” Iain explains. “They just had to accept whatever price was offered at the harbor. The small-scale fishermen were never paid a fair amount for their catch, regardless of how much they had. So they would go out more often, catch more fish, and only target the expensive and well-known species, wasting anything else that wasn’t desirable.”
When it comes to connecting fishers directly with consumers through the app, we’re opening up a world of seafood options that many people didn’t even know existed. We’ve discovered that there’s a market for fish like Cape bream, which was often overlooked by fishermen. Thanks to the Abalobi Marketplace, the price fishers receive for Cape bream has increased by over 300%. Now, high-end restaurants proudly serve this locally caught fish, and fishermen are paid fair prices for their catch. Traceability is a crucial aspect of this system. Every order includes a QR code that allows consumers to learn the entire story behind their fish – who caught it, when, and where. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Did you know that South Africa has a hidden treasure of freshwater fish in its rivers and lakes? It’s true! In places like Dullstroom in the Mpumalanga Highlands, there are sustainable trout and flyfishing farms that provide South Africans with delicious and nutritious fish.
These farms are not only good for our taste buds, but they also have a positive impact on our economy and the environment. By supporting local farms, we reduce our reliance on imported trout and salmon, which means lower prices for us and a smaller carbon footprint. Plus, it’s a win-win situation because these farms create jobs and contribute to our local communities.
When I think about all the problems in the world, like wars and food shortages, it becomes clear how important it is to support our local food producers. We can’t just rely on cheap imports anymore. We need to take matters into our own hands and support sustainable and responsible farming practices.
So the next time you’re at the grocery store, think about where your food comes from. Consider choosing locally produced fish, like the trout and tilapia from South Africa’s rivers and lakes. It’s not only good for you, but it’s also good for our economy and our planet. Let’s make a difference together!
It’s important to remember that we should take care of the people who provide us with food and the resources they rely on. Before you can enjoy eating fish, you need to make sure it has been sourced responsibly.
Keep track of where your fish comes from
Knowing where your fish comes from can enhance your dining experience. Imagine going to a fancy restaurant like Bistro Sixteen82 in Tokai, Cape Town, and scanning a barcode to learn that the Cape bream on your plate was caught in Lambert’s Bay just the day before. Thanks to Abalobi, which means “fishermen” in isiXhosa, both consumers and fishermen have the power to be informed. Kerry Kilpin, the executive chef at Sixteen82 and Tryn, Steenberg’s other restaurant, has been working with Abalobi since the beginning and believes in its ability to protect our oceans’ abundance while keeping fishers and diners connected.
You know that Abalobi platform I mentioned earlier? Well, guess what? They’ve opened it up to home cooks like you and me! It originally started out in the fancy restaurant world, but then COVID happened and they had to find a way to help out fishermen who were struggling. That’s when they came up with the idea of offering their products to regular folks like us.
Now, let me tell you about the goodies they have on offer. They’ve got this amazing range of convenience and deli products that will make your taste buds sing! Picture this: perfectly cleaned, filleted, and blast-frozen fish. It doesn’t get any better than that! You can even pop them in your air fryer at home for a quick and delicious meal. And here’s the best part – by buying their products, you’re actually supporting the fishermen and their families during the offseason. It’s a win-win situation!
If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, head over to abalobi.org to check out their website. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
A Different Kind of Biltong
Have you ever heard of the West Coast’s dried fish specialty called bokkoms? It’s quite well-known among South Africans, but have you ever tried dry-aged fish? It’s a relatively new concept in our local market. Dry-aging is a process that removes moisture from the fish while still keeping it incredibly juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
I have to tell you, you can’t even compare dry-aged fish to fresh fish, let alone bokkoms! The flavor intensification that happens when the moisture is removed is truly something special. The fats in the fish develop, while the “bad” proteins break down, resulting in cleaner cuts of fish without any fishy smells.
The dry-aged fish is so clean and delicious that it’s perfect for making sashimi and nigiri. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
When it comes to dry-ageing fish, it’s an unpredictable process that can involve smoking and curing. The time it takes to dry-age fish varies from a few days to several weeks. The aim is to extend the fish’s shelf life and make use of every part.
Once fish is dry-aged, it can be used in the same way as fresh fish. The advantage, however, is that the reduced moisture content ensures more even cooking and a crispy texture.
In April 2012, my business partner Kyle Nold and I started Cape Fish. We began with just one tuna boat and an old bakkie that we used for deliveries during odd hours. Our focus is on sustainably caught and sourced seafood, with a specialization in large pelagic fish like yellowfin tuna.
At Cape Fish, we take great pride in the way we handle and process our fish. Located in Paarden Eiland, our premises serve as a hub for supplying dry-aged fish to top restaurants like Salsify at the Roundhouse, The Pot Luck Club, Obi, and Orca Café. But that’s not all – we also offer an incredible range of butcher products, including unique options like swordfish bacon, marlin carpaccio, and salmon sausages.
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to sustainability. We prioritize working with fish species that are not only delicious but also harvested responsibly. In line with our no-wastage policy, we make use of every part of the fish we process. Offcuts get incorporated into our fishcake mixture, while bones and skin are repurposed for fish meal. Even the fish heads find a purpose as bait. We believe in minimizing waste and maximizing the potential of every fish we handle.
If you’re in search of the freshest catch, look no further than Cape Fish. We’re dedicated to providing you with high-quality seafood that you can feel good about enjoying. To learn more about our offerings, visit our website at capefish.co.za.
Discover our commitment to freshness
Right on the edge of Kalk Bay harbour, where boatloads of the freshest ocean bounty are delivered, Kalky’s is known for its prime location, which guarantees a taste of the sea. I can’t help but wonder where that snoek on my plate came from – the one I’m enjoying with my crispy chips that have been soaked in tangy brown vinegar and sprinkled with salt.
When you step into Kalky’s, you’ll be greeted by vibrant blue tables filled with families savoring the authentic atmosphere and taking advantage of the incredible prices. How does crayfish and chips for just R100 sound? And if you’re in the mood for freshly caught yellowtail, you can get that with chips for only R150.
Make sure to bring cash, just in case their card machine decides to misbehave again. And don’t worry if you have to wait a bit in line – it’s a sign that something delicious is waiting for you. Remember, you can reach Kalky’s at 021 788 1726 or find them on Facebook at facebook.com/kalkys.seafood.
Hey there, welcome to Gypsy Shawarmas and Fish in Gqeberha’s Richmond Hill! I’m Geoffrey Chipeta, one of the proud owners of this restaurant alongside my partner Thandanani Chipeta. We’ve been dishing up some seriously delicious fish and chips since the middle of the 2020 lockdown. Even though we couldn’t offer seating, we didn’t let that dampen our spirits. We focused on making our food available for takeaways, and it turned out to be a great decision.
We consider ourselves fortunate because we were already well-prepared for takeaways right from the beginning. As soon as the restrictions were lifted, allowing us to offer takeout, we received tremendous support from our community. People showed up in droves, hungry for our delectable dishes.
At Gypsy Shawarmas and Fish, we’ve become known as the place to go for the tastiest fried fish and chips in the Bay. Our whole fried hake is so amazing that even the most patriotic British pub-eater might shed a tear of joy. And let’s not forget about our fresh, flash-grilled squid with a tantalizing lemon butter drizzle. You can only enjoy this delicacy during chokka season in spring, so make sure you don’t miss out!
If you’re craving some mouthwatering fish and chips or the succulent squid, give us a call at 073 353 3653. You can also find us on Facebook at Gypsy Shawarmas and Fish. We can’t wait to serve you!
The Morgan Bay Hotel on the Wild Coast has been a reliable source of sustenance for hungry surfers and travelers for over 75 years. As I scan the horizon, perched above the inviting Indian Ocean, I find myself drawn to The Deck Restaurant and Bar (043 841 1062, morganbayhotel.co.za). It’s a charming, unassuming spot where I can delight in delectable seafood while soaking up the unspoiled beauty of the surroundings, and of course, savoring an ice-cold beer.
But here’s an even better idea if you have the luxury of time: try your hand at fishing! Cast your line and reel in your very own dinner. The Indian Ocean is home to a range of delectable favorites like kob, garrick, white steenbras, and an array of mouthwatering, smaller fish.
If you’re in the area, you should definitely get in touch with Great Kei Adventures. They offer guided fishing trips that are guaranteed to be a great time. Whether you want to fish from the beach or explore the local estuaries in a kayak, they have you covered. The best part is that their guides are all locals who know the area inside and out, so you’re in good hands. And you don’t have to worry about equipment because they provide top-notch gear. Just give them a call at 082 825 0624 or visit their website at greatkeiadventures.com to book your adventure.
Now, let me tell you about Paternoster. This charming seaside town may seem laid-back with its faded white-washed buildings and relaxed coastal vibe, but don’t let that fool you. It has one of the best food scenes in the country. You won’t believe the incredible food you can find at any restaurant here. And the best part is that all the ingredients are sourced locally, within a 50km radius. That means you’ll be enjoying the freshest seafood and the finest produce from the land. If you’re feeling fancy, you absolutely must try Chef Kobus van der Merwe’s restaurant, Wolfgat. It’s a fine-dining experience like no other, where the food is foraged and the flavors are out of this world. In fact, it was even named the best restaurant in the world in 2019! Just make sure to book well in advance, because it’s quite popular. You can visit their website at wolfgat.co.za to make a reservation for 2022.
Have you ever heard of the hidden gem of Paternoster? It’s a small coastal town on the West Coast of South Africa that offers a delightful culinary experience. When I first visited, I was amazed by the variety of seafood options available. From casual spots to more upscale restaurants, there’s something for everyone here.
Take, for example, Gaaitjie. This cozy restaurant, with its website gaaitjie.co.za, is so popular that finding a table can be quite a challenge. But believe me, the effort is worth it. Gaaitjie serves the freshest seafood, sourced directly from the ocean in front of you. It’s a true culinary delight.
Another must-visit spot is Leeto, located in the Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel. With a reservation at Leeto, you can indulge in the tastiest seasonal seafood dishes. The restaurant’s number is 060 927 0403. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
If you’re looking for a vibrant and lively place, head to The Noisy Oyster on St Augustine Road. With its vibrant shade cloths and flavorsome cuisine, The Noisy Oyster is a favorite among both locals and tourists. You can check out their Facebook page at facebook.com/noisyoysterpaternoster.
Before I experienced Paternoster’s food scene, I had no idea what to expect. But let me tell you, the dishes served here are nothing short of extraordinary. I highly recommend trying the prawn curry and sharing some snoek samosas as starters. They are simply delicious.
And don’t miss the West Coast mussels! Served with toasted garlic bread, they are a real treat. Pair them with a glass of Kaapse Vonkel, and you’re in for a culinary delight.
If you’re planning a trip to Paternoster, make sure to book your dining reservations in advance. These restaurants are quite popular, so securing a table ahead of time is essential.
Discover the Unexpected: Inland Seafood Delights
Forget what you think you know about buying seafood. The ocean may seem like the obvious choice, but sometimes the most extraordinary experiences are found where you least expect them. Case in point: Uncle Michael Jacobs’ Woelige Snoek, hiding in plain sight on Jan van Riebeeck Drive between Paarl and Wellington.
Picture this: a vibrant stall conjuring the coastal ambiance, right in the heart of the Boland. It’s a delicious contradiction that transports you from the bustling main road of Paarl to the breezy shores of the West Coast. And right before your eyes, the most exquisite West Coast snoek takes center stage, each tender morsel sourced exclusively from a trusted friend in Lambert’s Bay.
But that’s not all. At Uncle Michael’s stall, they go the extra mile to make your seafood dreams come true. Here, Sharon, Michael’s wife, prepares the snoek with precision and care, expertly cleaning, gutting, and vlekking it right before your eyes. Whether you opt for a small catch at R110 or a big one at R120, you can rest assured that you’re getting the freshest and tastiest snoek in town.
Now, imagine this: you’ve had a long day at work, but instead of heading straight home, you make a detour. With excitement brewing in your belly, you swing by Uncle Michael’s stall, ready to treat yourself to a true indulgence. As the aroma of fire-roasted sweet potatoes fills the air, you savor the experience of choosing the perfect snoek to sizzle over the coals. It’s the ultimate delight, the perfect reward for making a little detour on your journey home.
“We get fresh snoek from May through winter,” Sharon explains. “Last year, the season lasted longer than usual. We still had snoek in December. I hope it’s the same this year.” You can reach Sharon at 072 107 8672.
Dullstroom in Mpumalanga is far from the sea, but it’s actually closer to Gauteng cities. Despite this, Dullstroom has something special for adventurers and foodies – trout. It’s an incredible experience to cast your line into one of the lakes and feel the tug as a trout bites. Even after days of trying, it’s exciting to see trout leap out of the water right in front of you.
They say fly fishing is the ultimate test of endurance, but if you’re determined to catch and savor your trout quickly, I’ve got some tips for you. At Milly’s Country Trout Stall (013 254 0310), you’ll find a remarkable assortment of locally and sustainably farmed trout and trout products. These come straight from the trout farms in nearby Machadodorp.
Milly’s has everything you need – whether you want a whole fish, smoked slivers, or delicious pates of all kinds. You can’t miss out on the trout roulade; it’s absolutely divine. Just give them a call at 013 256 0718, or check out their website, millys.co.za.
Hey there, have you ever been to Johannesburg? Well, let me tell you about a hidden gem called Fisherman’s Deli. This place is a seafood lover’s paradise! Located in the fancy neighbourhood of Dunkeld West, Fisherman’s Deli is a lively spot that will transport you straight to the ocean.
When I step into Fisherman’s Deli, I can’t help but get excited. The aroma of fresh fish fills the air, and the sushi chef is busy crafting mouthwatering delicacies right before your eyes. You can choose to enjoy your sushi there, but most people prefer taking it home to savor every bite.
Now, let me tell you about the fish selection. Fisherman’s Deli has it all! They offer a wide variety of fresh fish, from salmon to snapper, and everything in between. And if you’re lucky, you might even find fresh calamari and mussels on some days. It’s no wonder locals rave about this place.
Still not convinced? Give them a call at 011 325 2577, or visit their website fishermansdeli.co.za. They’ll be more than happy to provide you with all the information you need.
If you’re a seafood enthusiast like me, you should definitely check out Fisherman’s Deli. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
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