How to Remove Excess Salt from Dried Fish (Easy & Effective Methods)

Dried fish is a staple in many cuisines around the world, offering a convenient and nutritious way to enjoy fish throughout the year. However, one of the challenges with dried fish is its high salt content, which can be overwhelming for some palates.

Many people who are new to dried seafood have no idea how to clean dried fish properly. Back in the day, our mothers and grandmothers were experts at it, but today’s generation often struggles with the process. Even many of our customers ask, “How can I clean dried fish and remove excess salt?” If you’re wondering the same, don’t worry—this article will guide you through it step by step!

We will tell you how to remove excess salt from dried fish, fix overly salty fish, and provide tips on cleaning and preparing dried fish for cooking.

Table of Contents

Why is Salt Added When Drying Fish?

Dried fish, often preserved with salt, is a traditional method of preserving fish by removing moisture. This process helps extend the shelf life of the fish and allows it to be stored without refrigeration. Salt plays a crucial role in this preservation process by drawing out moisture and inhibiting bacterial growth, which helps prevent spoilage.

How to Remove Salt in Dried Fish?

Removing excess salt from dried fish involves a process of soaking and rinsing. You need to follow the below steps:

Rinse the Fish: Start by gently rinsing the dried fish under cold running water to remove any loose salt on the surface. This step helps reduce the initial saltiness and prepares the fish for soaking.
Soak in Cold Water: Place the fish in a large bowl or container filled with cold water. Ensure the fish is fully submerged. You can add ice to keep the water cold if needed.
Refrigerate and Change Water: Cover the bowl and refrigerate it. Change the water every few hours to help extract more salt from the fish. The frequency of water changes depends on the thickness of the fish and your desired level of saltiness.
Check Saltiness: After soaking for several hours or overnight, remove a small piece of the fish and taste it. If it’s still too salty, continue soaking and changing the water until you reach your desired salt level.

How to Fix Fish That is Too Salty?

If your dried fish is too salty, you can fix it by following these tips:

Extended Soaking: Continue soaking the fish in cold water for a longer period. Thicker pieces may require up to three days of soaking with frequent water changes.
Boiling Water Rinse: If you’re in a hurry, you can briefly rinse the fish with boiling water to remove excess salt. However, be cautious not to overdo this, as it can affect the texture of the fish.

What is the Fastest Way to Desalt Salt Fish?

While soaking in cold water is the most effective method for desalting, there are quicker alternatives:

Hot Water Soak: Soak the fish in hot (not boiling) water for a few minutes, then transfer it to cold water for further soaking. This method can speed up the process but may not be as effective as cold water soaking.
Boiling: For a quicker method, you can boil the fish for about 20 minutes, then soak it in cold water. However, boiling can make the fish tough if overdone.

How to Clean Dried Fish?

Cleaning dried fish is essential to remove dirt and excess salt:

Rinse Under Running Water: Start by rinsing the dried fish gently under cold running water to remove loose debris and salt.
Soak in Water: Place the fish in a bowl of cold water and let it soak for a few minutes. This helps loosen any grit or dirt.
Gently Swirl and Rinse: Gently swirl the water to release any dirt, then drain and rinse the fish again. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you remove all the salt from dried fish?

It’s not recommended to remove all the salt from dried fish. Some salt is necessary for flavor and preservation. The goal is to reduce the saltiness to a palatable level.

How long does it take to desalt dried fish?

The time required to desalt dried fish depends on the thickness of the fish and the number of water changes. Generally, it can take anywhere from 12 hours to several days.

Can you use other liquids for desalting?

While water is the most common liquid used for desalting, some recipes suggest using milk to tenderize and reduce saltiness, especially for salted cod.

Is dried fish healthy?

Yes. Dried fish is healthy and a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious addition to meals. However, it is high in sodium due to the preservation process.