Cape Hake Around the World: The Unsung Star of the Sea

Let’s talk Cape hake.

Not the flashiest fish in the ocean, but stay with us. This mild, flaky whitefish has been quietly making its way into kitchens across the globe — feeding families, supporting coastal communities, and earning a place on fine-dining menus and fish counters alike. It’s time Cape hake got the spotlight it deserves.

🇿🇦 South Africa: Where Hake is a National Staple
In South Africa, hake is more than just dinner — it’s everyday comfort.
From classic fish and chips to lightly battered fillets on a braai, hake is a go-to across generations.
It’s affordable, sustainable, and always in season somewhere. And if you’ve never had it fried golden with tartar sauce and slap chips? You’re missing out.

🇪🇸 Spain: From the Market to the Mediterranean
In Spain, merluza (that’s hake) stars in everything from garlic and paprika-spiced fillets to simple grilled portions topped with olive oil and lemon.
In the Basque region, Merluza a la Koskera—with asparagus, clams, and peas—is a springtime favorite that lets hake’s delicate texture shine.

🇫🇷 France: Hake, But Make It Chic
The French know how to elevate even the simplest ingredients.
Colin (as hake is known in France) appears in elegant preparations like Colin en papillote—steamed in parchment with white wine, herbs, and vegetables.
Served with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc? Très bien.

🇵🇹 Portugal: Simple, Honest, and Always Delicious
Portugal may be known for its love affair with cod, but hake holds its own.
Grilled over charcoal, tossed with garlic and olive oil, or layered into a seafood rice, hake brings gentle flavor and reliable satisfaction to the table.

🇺🇸 United States: The Sustainable Secret Weapon
In the U.S., Cape hake is a rising star—especially among chefs and wholesalers seeking sustainable alternatives to overfished species.
With its mild flavor and soft, flaky texture, it’s perfect for everything from fish tacos and chowders to upscale entrées.
It’s also a smart choice for diners looking for clean, responsibly sourced protein.

Global Kitchens, Local Roots

Cape hake may not have the swagger of salmon or the press coverage of cod, but don’t mistake quiet for boring.
This is a fish that delivers:

• Clean taste
• Beautiful flake
• Incredible versatility
• Certified sustainability (MSC, of course)

It’s the kind of fish that works hard on every menu, in every cuisine — adaptable, reliable, and always welcome.

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