6 Types of Seafoods You’ll Fall In Love With

Jennifer Ezeokoli
Jennifer Ezeokoli
Jennifer is a food enthusiast, Writer/Content Creator. Driven by passion, as the Head of content for African Food Network, she strives to curate exciting, fun, informative and functional content.
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Seafood lovers should be taken to an enormous beautiful island where we’ll see the seafood, stuff our faces with them and never grow old. Everybody loves seafood, even when they don’t.

Seafood is consumed all over the world; it provides the world’s prime source of high-quality protein: 14–16% of the animal protein consumed worldwide; over one billion people rely on seafood as their primary source of animal protein.

Some kinds of seafood are raised in ponds or in cages in the sea, but most of the fish we eat are taken alive from the ocean by big commercial fishing boats. Fish is among the most common.

What Is Seafood?

Seafood refers to any fish or shellfish that is harvested from the ocean or freshwater habitats for human consumption. This includes a wide variety of species like salmon, cod, shrimp, lobster, clams, crab, oysters, tuna, and more. Seafood provides healthy protein and important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.

However, some seafood can contain mercury or other contaminants, so moderation and choosing low-mercury options is recommended. Overall, seafood is a nutritious part of a balanced diet, rich in nutrients that offer health benefits. But it’s important to consider sustainability and limit consumption of overfished species.

Popular Types of Seafoods You Can Eat

  • Fish
  • Shrimp
  • Prawns
  • Lobsters
  • Crab
  • Calamari

Below are some ways to enjoy Seafood;

Fish

Fish are an important source of protein that can be eaten raw, like sushi, smoked, canned, fried, baked, grilled or steamed. It can be cooked whole, or cut into large pieces called fillets, or cut into small pieces and used to make soup, curry, stew, etc. However you eat your fish, watch out for bones!

Fish Seasoning Recipe

Shrimp

Barbecued shrimp, boiled shrimp, broiled shrimp, baked shrimp, sautéed shrimp, shrimp kebabs, shrimp creole, pan-fried shrimp, deep-fried shrimp, stir-fried shrimp, pineapple shrimp, lemon shrimp, coconut shrimp, pepper shrimp, shrimp soup, shrimp stew, shrimp salad, shrimp and potatoes, shrimp burger, shrimp sandwich, shrimp scampi, shrimp cocktail, maybe some others. Sometimes you have to pull off the head or shell yourself like you have all day. Also, that dark line on the back of a shrimp is full of poop.

Shrimp
image source: thechunkychef

Crab

Steamed crab, lump crab, whole crab, crab legs, crab claws, crab cake, crab bisque, soft-shell crab, deep-fried crab, crab dip, crab soup, etc.

Pros: Good hot or cold. Cracking and pulling tiny slivers of meat out of a crab carcass really feels like an accomplishment.

Personally, if it’s not a huge crab with the possibility of plenty flesh inside, I don’t want to go through the stress. Crab bodies are very spiny and can really cause injuries if you’re not careful.

crab - seafood
image source: bonapetit

Lobster

Steamed, boiled, grilled, whole or just-tail, lobster bisque, lobster roll. Lobsters are fancy, and can be expensive but undeniably delish!

Lobster is a highly regarded seafood delicacy known for its succulent, sweet meat. It is often considered a symbol of luxury dining and is popular in various cuisines worldwide. It is commonly prepared by boiling or steaming. Once cooked, the lobster’s meat can be extracted from the shell with a cracking tool and then enjoyed in a variety of ways.

It’s often served with melted butter, which complements the meat’s natural richness. Lobster meat can be used in dishes such as lobster rolls, bisque, or simply as a stand-alone dish. The sweet and tender flesh of lobster makes it a sought-after treat for seafood enthusiasts, offering a unique and indulgent dining experience.

Lobsters seafoods
image source: legal sea foods

Crayfish

Also called crawfish. Arguably goes with every meal. A typical Nigerian dish is not complete without it. Boiled crayfish, fried crayfish, fried crayfish, dried crayfish. They vary in size and are a delight in meals.

A type of sea seafood that is cherished for its tender, sweet meat. These freshwater crustaceans are enjoyed in various culinary traditions, especially in the Southern United States, where they’re a staple in dishes like crawfish boils. To savor crayfish, they are typically cooked by boiling or steaming with a medley of spices and seasonings, infusing them with robust flavor.

Once cooked, the crayfish are typically served in a communal feast where diners gather to peel the shells, showing the succulent tail meat inside. Often enjoyed with sides like potatoes, and vegetables, crayfish offer a delightful seafood experience with a hint of Cajun or Creole zest, making them a favorite among seafood aficionados.

Crayfish - Seafoods
image source: needpix

Calamari

Calamari is a seafood that you will be eager to taste. It consists of squid, typically served deep-fried and battered, though it can be enjoyed in various preparations like grilling, sautéing, or adding to soups. Its mild, slightly sweet, and briny flavor, coupled with its tender, somewhat chewy texture, make calamari a sought-after choice for seafood lovers.

The versatility of calamari is a key reason for its popularity; it can be served as an appetizer, in sandwiches, or as the centerpiece of a main course, offering a range of  possibilities. This adaptability allows it to pair well with diverse seasonings and sauces, enhancing its appeal.

Types of Seafoods

What are Shellfish

Shellfish is the term given to edible sea creatures that have either hard or soft outer shells with soft flesh inside; lobsters, crabs, crayfish, prawns and shrimps fall into this category. By the way, it is safe to say that the shrimp is a smaller relative of the prawn.

Seafood is high in nutrients, and a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals. Scientific studies continue to explore the relationship between the unique type of fat found in seafood, the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, in the prevention or mitigation of common chronic diseases.

Shellfish are low in calories and rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain high amounts of certain micronutrients, including iron, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B12.

In summary, however, if you want to enjoy your seafood, please go ahead. They are really awesome and taste so good.

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Jennifer Ezeokoli
Jennifer Ezeokoli
Jennifer is a food enthusiast, Writer/Content Creator. Driven by passion, as the Head of content for African Food Network, she strives to curate exciting, fun, informative and functional content.
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