Cod has long been a staple in British cuisine, from classic fish and chips to hearty fish pies. However, the decline of cod stocks has made sustainability a pressing issue, encouraging seafood lovers to explore other options. Among these, hake stands out as one of the most versatile and sustainable alternatives to cod.

If you’re searching for an option that mimics the mild flavour and firm texture of cod, hake is an excellent choice. Let’s dive into why hake deserves a spot on your plate and how it can seamlessly replace cod in your favourite recipes.

What Makes Hake Special?

Hake is a white fish with a mild, slightly sweet flavour and firm, flaky flesh, making it an ideal substitute for cod. It’s incredibly versatile, easily adapting to a variety of cooking methods, including grilling, pan-frying, baking, and poaching.

Sustainability Benefits

One of the most compelling reasons to choose hake is its outstanding sustainability credentials. Caught by our Netters who fish out of Newlyn, our Hake is MSC (the Marine Stewardship Council) approved meaning our catch comes from well-managed, sustainable fisheries.

The use of gill nets with larger-than-required mesh sizes allows smaller, juvenile fish to escape. This helps maintain healthy stock levels by giving young fish a chance to grow and reproduce.

Abundant Local Supply

Hake is plentiful in Westcountry waters, making it a far more sustainable alternative to cod. By choosing hake, you’re actively supporting sustainable fishing practices and contributing to the health of marine ecosystems.

Cooking with Hake

Hake’s versatility means it’s a fantastic alternative to cod, and can replace it in almost any recipe. Whether you’re preparing a traditional dish or trying something new, hake delivers delicious results.

Here are some of our favourite Hake recipes for you to try:

• BBQ Hake Tacos with Fresh Peach Salsa
  
• Hake with Prawns and Capers Recipe
  
• Barbecued Hake Pesto Parcels Recipe
  
• Mitch Tonks' Hake with Green Sauce & Mussels