If you like seafood, then you sure do love tuna. It is the tastiest and most varied foodstuff. Many professional chefs, as well as a great many home cooks, enjoy preparing sushi or grilled tuna steaks. But maybe you asked the question of how much a whole fish tuna will cost in Brazil.
Brazil is known for its fishing culture and has plenty of choices for seafood lovers. Fresh whole tuna fish comes in different species, and prices may vary due to a few conditions. In this blog, we will see where to find whole tuna fish, the types, and what to expect when it comes to pricing.
Types of Tuna
Let’s start with the different types of tuna that exist in Brazil. Some of the most popular species are:
- Bluefin Tuna: This fish is very rich, having a buttery flavor and a high-fat content. Most sushi chefs generally favor it, but it is costly since it has been in much demand from overfishing.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Yellowfin tuna is generally very cheap in comparison to bluefin; however, it also tastes excellent and can be used extensively. This species is quite general in markets and also in restaurants.
- Skipjack Tuna: It’s a small variety of tuna and tastes different. But whenever you get a whole skipjack, it is very inexpensive.
The variation in store prices differs significantly in the species above. To give an estimate of the whole tuna fish price in Brazil, take note of the determinants of this price.
Where to Buy Whole Tuna Fish
Brazil offers several alternatives to buy whole tuna fish. Some excellent options are as follows:
Local Fish Markets
There is a vibrant fish market in Brazil. Among such places is Mercado Municipal de São Paulo, otherwise known as São Paulo Municipal Market. It is from here that you will enjoy fresh catches from the sea. Here, you mostly find whole tuna fish. Traders usually have a cordial relationship with local fishermen for freshness.
Supermarkets
Supermarkets have seafood sections in Brazil. Most Extra, Pão de Açúcar and Carrefour stores sell whole tuna or even pieces, according to seasons and availability. Make sure that the fish is fresh, and don’t hesitate to ask about supply sources.
You Can Find Online Stores
Almost every fish business has an online portal selling the products, like Unimitra Seafood. This gives one the facility to buy fresh whole fish from home. Some well-focused websites for live fish supply deliver to your doorstep, thus getting fresh ones with your tuna.
Restaurants
Some restaurants and sushi bars in Brazil purchase whole tuna fish from suppliers. They can sell fish on special occasions or host events around the whole tuna fish with new sashimi and grills. It would be fun to get involved with the enjoyment of the sashimi tuna in such a dining experience!
Ranges of Prices
Now, let’s take into account the actual price range of a whole tuna fish. Prices would then depend on species, quality, weight, and place.
Bluefin Tuna
On average, bluefin tuna will cost between R$50 and R$300 per kilo. This species sells within the higher end of the price scale because of its popularity and demand. Size also plays a role: larger fish might fetch even more money.
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin tuna is relatively cheaper. They sell within the price range of R$30 to R$100 for every kilogram. In this respect, yellowfin will be ideal for homes as well as cheaper restaurants.
Skipjack Tuna
Skipjack is, however, the cheapest tuna whenever you need a very low-budget tuna. Their usual price is between R$15 and R$50 per kilogram. That depends on the market or place.
Prices depend on seasons and distance to coastal towns. For example, in a coastal town, prices may be cheaper than the same in a larger town inland.
Factors That Define the Price
Knowing these factors that define the whole tuna fish price in Brazil helps to demystify the prices. Here are a few factors:
- Seasonality: Most fish are seasonal. The prices of tuna go down during the peak season when their supply is abundant. During the off-season, when fewer fish are caught, the price tends to rise.
- Sources and Sustainability: The sustainable source will be more expensive because of the tuna that comes from it. Several consumers pay extra for morally sourced fish. Some marketplaces take pride in having a sustainable practice and, therefore, pricing.
- Location: The prices vary with location. Areas close to the sea are cheaper than those in the interior. Besides, areas that are not near the city may have fewer choices, and hence, the prices will be higher.
- Quality and freshness: Fresh fish of good quality are always costlier. Tuna fresh and sold directly by the fishermen will be costlier than frozen old fish.
Cooking and Enjoyment
Once you get the entire tuna fish, the fun does not end there, just the buying. You have plenty of options in preparing and cooking this delightful fish.
- Sushi and Sashimi: The sushi and sashimi method is the oldest approach to enjoying tuna. It involves a fresh fillet of tuna which will need to be thinly sliced for use. Do keep in mind that high quality fish will be essential when consuming it raw.
- Grilling: Grill with whole tuna steaks, very excellent for grilling; brush with olive oil and sprinkle salt along with your favorite herbs.
- Tuna Salad: The recipe for tuna salad comes under light meals. Use lumps of cooked tuna, mix it with sliced vegetables and olive oil and lemon juice and it is a really great refreshing meal.
Conclusion
Several factors influence the price when contemplating the whole tuna fish cost in Brazil. Knowing the types of tuna will help you make the right choice while shopping. In addition, there are local fish markets, supermarkets, online stores, and restaurants through which you can buy from.
You now have a better idea of how much you may expect to pay for whole tuna fish in Brazil. Prepare to enjoy this yummy seafood by preparing it in various ways. Whether grilled or enjoyed raw in sushi, good quality tuna can transform your meal into something just amazing!
