How to Maintain Peak Flavour and Texture When Cooking Frozen Seafood

A Simple Guide for Home Cooks

Frozen seafood can be every bit as delicious as fresh – if you know how to handle it right.

At KB Seafood Co, we freeze our products at peak freshness to lock in quality and flavour from ocean to plate.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting perfect results at home.

1. Start with Quality Seafood

Great flavour begins with great seafood. Choose frozen products that:

• Come from trusted suppliers
• Carry food-safety or sustainability certifications like MSC, ASC or HACCP
• Are well-sealed with no frost or ice crystals inside the pack

KB Seafood Co tip: Our frozen range is snap-frozen to preserve freshness naturally - no compromise on taste or texture.

2. Thaw Slowly and Safely

The key to perfect seafood texture is how you thaw it.

Best way:

• Put the seafood in its sealed packaging on a plate in the fridge overnight (4°C or colder).

Fast method (if you’re in a hurry):

• Submerge the sealed pack in cold water for 20–30 minutes, changing the water halfway through.

Avoid:

• Hot water or microwaves, as they begin cooking the edges and spoil the texture.
• Leaving seafood out on the bench, as it promotes bacteria growth.

3. Pat Dry Before Cooking

Once thawed, gently pat the seafood dry with a paper towel.

This simple step helps you:

• Get a crisp, golden sear
• Avoid watery or rubbery texture
• Keep seasonings from sliding off

4. Cook Gently. Don’t Overdo It.

Seafood cooks fast! Watch it closely.

Tips:

• Fish fillets: Cook over medium heat for 2–4 minutes each side, depending on thickness.
• Prawns: Cook until pink and firm; just a few minutes.
• Squid: Either very quickly (1–2 minutes) or very slowly - anything in between makes it tough.

Visual cue: When the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, it’s ready.

5. Lock in Flavour

Simple techniques bring out the best in frozen seafood:

• Pan-fry or grill for flavourful caramelisation
• Bake or steam for gentle, even cooking
• Add a squeeze of lemon or a touch of olive oil to brighten the dish

Tip: Avoid heavy sauces - allow the natural sweetness of the seafood to shine.

6. Serve Fresh and Enjoy Immediately

Seafood continues to cook slightly after it’s removed from the heat. Serve right away for the best texture and juiciness.

Pair with light sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad for a well-balanced meal.

7. Smart Storage for Next Time

• Keep your freezer at –18 °C or below
• Store seafood in its original packaging or airtight containers
• Use within the recommended “best-before” date
• Never refreeze once it has been thawed

Quick Summary

Step	What to do	Why it matters
1	Choose high-quality frozen seafood	Ensures great flavour and safety
2	Thaw in the fridge	Keeps texture firm and moist
3	Pat dry	Promotes even browning
4	Cook gently	Prevents overcooking
5	Add light seasoning	Enhances natural taste
6	Serve straight away	Maintains texture
7	Store correctly	Ensures safety and reduces waste