Abalone
Red abalone is a native snail-like univalve mollusk, legal for sport harvest and aquaculture in California. It is a super local and sustainable ocean product (rated “Best Choice” a la Seafood Watch). As in the wild, abalone eat marine algae (seaweeds) which are harvested in a sustainable manner by clipping the blades so they grow back. Fun fact: the colors on the abalone shells are a result of the different seaweeds that they eat.
The Meat
They are small, but incredibly flavorful. Each fillet is about 1 oz, and will make a delectable appetizer or dinner for two rounded out with some sides. And of course these fine fillets come inside a gorgeous shell that you can enjoy long after your meal is through!
Prep
They will either come prepared as “steaks”, or you will need to shuck and tenderize them yourself.
Gear and fishery info
We are getting these little beauties from American Abalone Farm in Davenport, Ca., just north of Santa Cruz. Tom has a very cool operation there, nurturing abalone from water brought in just steps away from the beach.
#KnowYourFisherman
Our abalone are farmed at American Abalone Farm in Davenport, Ca., just north of Santa Cruz. Here’s Tom Ebert (left), of American Abalone Farms (Photo by Charles Russo). And Kirk and Penelope enjoying a trip to the farm.
Recipes
