January Seasonal Food: Let's Try Sea Eel, the Viagra of the Sea!

As winter approaches, one of the seasonal foods to look forward to is the sea eel. Known for its distinct spicy flavor and chewy texture, it is currently at its best. Sea eels gain weight and boast optimal freshness and taste from December to February. Despite their unattractive appearance, sea eels are rich in nutrients, and sea eel stew, in particular, is surprisingly beneficial for health. Let's explore the charm and unexpected benefits of sea eel stew.

 

Nutritional Composition of Sea Eels

Sea eels are protein-rich fish that aid in growth and development. With abundant muscle components, sea eels are high in moisture yet low in calories. They are effective for diets as they contain minimal fat and cholesterol. Additionally, in traditional medicine, sea eels, known for their warm nature, are believed to promote blood circulation – a perfect choice for the winter season when the cold is prevalent.

 

Sea eels, a winter seasonal delight, offer a unique spicy taste and a rich nutritional profile beneficial for various dishes.

 

Surprising Benefits of Sea Eel Liver

Sea eel liver is often referred to as the "Viagra of the Sea" because it contains more than 20 times the recommended daily amount of EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids. These components help prevent adult diseases such as dementia, high cholesterol, and rheumatoid arthritis while enhancing memory. Furthermore, the richness in vitamins A and E contributes to anti-aging, vision protection, bone and tooth development, and prevention of night blindness. However, those with high blood uric acid levels due to abundant purines should regulate their intake.

 

Special Combination in Sea Eel Stew

It is recommended to add various vegetables to sea eel stew. Vegetables like bean sprouts, Korean parsley (minari), and radishes can supplement the vitamin C lacking in sea eels while enhancing the texture and flavor. In particular, the protein-digesting enzyme found in radishes contributes to the digestion of sea eels.

 

Precautions

When cooking sea eels at home, it's crucial to remove the internal organs to prevent the risk of parasitic infection. Consuming infected sea eels can lead to severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and stomach cramps, so caution is necessary.

 

Sea eels, a winter seasonal delight, offer a unique spicy taste and a rich nutritional profile beneficial for various dishes. Sea eel stew, in particular, stands out with its surprising efficacy. Embrace the winter chill with a spicy sea eel stew and supply your body with essential nutrients.