How to Thaw Any Variety of Wild-Caught Smoked Fish

Knowing how to thaw smoked fish ensures that you can enjoy any variety of it at the peak of taste and quality. Different varieties of smoked fish require slightly different handling methods when defrosting, so pay close attention to which one applies to the fish you’re thawing. 

Here are the two different handling methods you’ll want to know for smoked fish from Wild Alaskan Company:

• Smoked sockeye: Cold Smoked Sockeye and Hot Smoked Sockeye can be thawed in the package overnight in the refrigerator.

• Smoked white fish: Cold Smoked Sablefish and Cold Smoked Pacific Halibut must be removed from their original packaging before thawing in the refrigerator to prevent growth of harmful bacteria. 

How to Thaw Any Smoked Salmon Products 

1. Place package of cold smoked sockeye, hot smoked sockeye, or Smoked Sockeye Salmon Snack Bites in the refrigerator, unopened. 

2. Package will be thawed in 10 to 12 hours. It can be stored unopened in the refrigerator for up to 30 days. Once opened, enjoy within 5 days. 

How to Thaw Cold Smoked White Fish 

Time needed: 10-12 hours, or until defrosted through

Defrosting cold smoked white fish overnight in the refrigerator is the only way to safely thaw the fish. This includes cold smoked sablefish and cold smoked Pacific halibut.

Remove cold smoked white fish (cold smoked Pacific halibut or cold smoked sablefish) from original packaging.

Transfer cold smoked white fish to a storage container (or resealable bag), then cover. Place cold smoked white fish in the refrigerator.

Once cold smoked white fish has thawed — this will usually take 10-12 hours — enjoy within 5 days. 

Be sure to stock your kitchen with sustainably-caught fish and shellfish by sourcing your seafood online from Wild Alaskan Company. You’ll get high-quality, wild-caught seafood delivered straight to your doorstep. Choose your fish subscription box today.