Pollock vs Cod: Which is Better?

They have an incredible taste and their white meat is super healthy too. No wonder pollock and cod are one the world’s favorite fish foods. They belong to the same family and you can find them in the same areas. So, how do you recognize these fish? In this post we’ll explain how to tell them apart and which one is better: pollock or cod.

Cod and Pollack are both delicious fish food.

Cod and Pollack are both delicious one the world’s favorite fish foods

How to tell Pollock vs Cod Apart?

Cod and pollock belong to the same white fish family of the Gadidae. They have some clear distinct features that can help you distinguish them. Pollock have a silvery body, where cod have a brown speckled body with a white lateral line.

Both fish live on or near the bottom where they feed on crustaceans, small fish and squid. Cod also feed on worms, fish eggs

Pollock and (Atlantic) cod are distributed in the North Atlantic Ocean. They are popular fish caught off the coasts of North America, United Kingdom, Ireland, Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Spain.

Pollock caught in Ireland fishing

Pollock – sometimes also Pollack – is actually a common name for two similar North Atlantic species. They can both grow up to 1 meter (4 feet) and weigh up to 21 kilograms (about 45 pounds).

Cod is also a common name for several fish species including the Atlantic cod, Pacific cod and Greenland cod. These fish can grow up to 5–12 kilograms (11–25 pounds), but record cod can weigh up to 100 kg (220 lb).

Cod have a brown speckled body and a clear white lateral line

Popular in many Cuisines

one the world’s favorite fish foods

Pollack and cod are both types of white fish that are popular in many cuisines around the world. However, whether one is “better” than the other is subjective and depends on individual preferences and circumstances.

Pollack has largely been consumed as a cheaper and versatile alternative to cod and haddock. Recently, pollock has become more popular due to overfishing of cod.

In terms of nutritional value, both fish are good sources of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Cod tends to be slightly higher in calories and fat, while pollack is often lower in mercury levels.

In terms of taste, cod is generally considered to have a mild, slightly sweet flavor, while pollack has a slightly stronger, more savory taste. Both fish are versatile and can be prepared in many different ways, such as baking, grilling, or frying.

Ultimately, the choice between pollack and cod comes down to personal preference and availability. Some people may prefer the milder flavor of cod, while others may prefer the stronger taste of pollack. Similarly, one fish may be more readily available or affordable in certain regions, making it a more practical choice.

Pollock caught on the Brazzen Hussy, Ireland

Cod and Pollock Recipes

Cod and pollock have very tasty white meat and versatile for many recipes. Here are just a few ideas of how you can prepare this fish:

Curried cod vs pollock: classic recipe with chickpeas, ginger and spices – it’s healthy, low calorie and packed with iron too
Cod or pollock with chorizo stew: combine the soft taste of the fish with the punch of the chorizo
Coconut and kale fish curry: excellent idea for a sweet evening meal
Fish with olives and crispy pancetta: simple and fast with an italian touch
Bacalao a al Vizcaína: traditional Basque recipe with garlic, red peppers and tomatoes

So, next time you’re at the fish market, you’ll know which fish is pollock and which one is cod. Use this flaky, versatile and healthy white fish home – and go beyond battered cod 🙂