Alternatives to Cod - Sustainable Hake

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.

 

MSC Certification

At Greendale, our hake is sourced from an MSC-certified fishery off the Cornish coast. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification ensures the fish comes from a well-managed and environmentally sustainable fishery.

 

Responsible Fishing Practices

The use of gillnets 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.

 

BBQ Hake Tacos with Fresh Peach Salsa

For a fresh and flavourful meal, try our BBQ Hake Tacos. The firm texture of hake holds up beautifully on the BBQ, and its mild flavour pairs perfectly with zesty marinades and vibrant toppings.

 

Hake with Prawns and Capers Recipe

This delightful dish is ideal for lunch or a light supper—pair it with your favourite veggies, crusty bread, or a crisp salad. We've used our unsmoked Hake Loin fillets, but it’s just as delicious with our award-winning Smoked Hake Loin.

 

Mitch Tonks' Hake with Green Sauce & Mussels

Why not try this delicious recipe from renowned local chef Mitch Tonks, made with our responsibly-fished Hake, caught by our own fishing vessels? Mitch Tonks is one of the country’s most respected seafood experts, as well as an acclaimed restaurateur, chef, and author.

 

Why Choose Hake?

Hake is more than just a great alternative to cod—it’s a fantastic fish in its own right. Here’s why it deserves a place in your kitchen:

• Flavour and Texture: Its firm, flaky flesh and mild taste make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
• Affordability: Hake is often more budget-friendly than cod, making it an economical choice for families.
• Environmental Impact: Opting for hake supports sustainable fishing and helps reduce pressure on overfished species like cod.
• Conclusion: Embrace Hake as a Cod Alternative

Hake offers the perfect combination of taste, versatility, and sustainability. Whether you’re swapping it into your favourite cod recipes or discovering new dishes, this underappreciated fish has plenty to offer.

Also, by choosing hake, you’re not only treating yourself to delicious meals but also taking a step toward protecting the oceans for future generations. Next time you’re planning a seafood dish, consider hake—you won’t be disappointed.

Check out our range of hake cuts at the Greendale Farm Shop, such as our Hake Loin and Hake Fillet, both MSC Approved, today.