Salmon roe, which are the orange or red eggs of salmon, is a treat all over the world. These tiny pearls, which are also called red caviar or ikura, give food a bright, salty pop. I love incorporating salmon roe into sushi rolls, rice bowls, pasta, and appetizers.
But salmon roe is perishable and doesn’t last forever. So, how should I store any extra salmon roe? Can I freeze salmon roe to make it last longer?
In this article, I’ll share how to properly freeze salmon roe step-by-step. I’ll also go over signs of spoiled roe, recommended freezer times, and thawing instructions. Let’s dive in!
Overview of Freezing Salmon Roe
Freezing is an effective method for preserving salmon roe quality for a few months. With proper handling frozen salmon roe retains much of its signature pop and brininess.
It can then be thawed and used in all the same ways as fresh roe. However there are a few guidelines to follow for successfully freezing.
The keys to freezing salmon roe are:
- Start with the freshest roe possible
- Rinse off excess salt and dry thoroughly
- Use air-tight containers to prevent freezer burn
- Label packages with dates
- Freeze for no more than 3-4 months
- Thaw gradually in the refrigerator
Follow these steps and your frozen salmon roe will stay delicious until you’re ready to eat it!
Step-by-Step Guide to Freezing Salmon Roe
Here are the steps you need to take to freeze salmon roe the right way at home:
1. Purchase Fresh Salmon Roe
Always start with the highest quality salmon roe for freezing. Check the sell-by date and look for plump eggs with an orange-red color. Avoid any discolored or broken roe.
Ideally, freeze roe within 2 days of purchasing for best flavor and texture.
2. Rinse and Pat Dry
Rinse the salmon roe under cold water to remove any excess salt from the exterior. Then gently pat dry with a paper towel to absorb all moisture.
3. Transfer to Airtight Container
Place the dried roe in an airtight container, small freezer bag, or jar. Make sure no air remains inside. You can portion into smaller amounts to avoid thawing more than needed later.
4. Label and Freeze
Label the container with the type of roe and freezing date. Freeze at 0°F or below.
For quickest freezing, place the package in the coldest part of the freezer, which is usually at the back.
5. Use Within 3-4 Months
For best flavor and texture, use frozen salmon roe within 3-4 months. Discard any older packages.
Thawing Frozen Salmon Roe
To safely thaw frozen roe:
- Move frozen package to the refrigerator
- Thaw overnight or up to 24 hours
- Use immediately after thawing
- Do not re-freeze thawed roe
Microwaving or leaving roe out at room temperature can cause bacteria growth. Refrigerator thawing keeps the delicate eggs intact.
Signs Salmon Roe Has Gone Bad
Check for these indications your frozen roe has spoiled:
- Unpleasant odor
- Soft, mushy texture
- Discoloration
- Seeping liquid
- Milky appearance
If you notice any of these, throw the roe away. Don’t risk eating spoiled salmon roe.
Storing Leftover Roe
Only freeze salmon roe that is completely fresh. Once thawed or opened, use leftover roe within 3 days.
Keep opened containers of roe tightly sealed in the refrigerator. The quality will quickly deteriorate if exposed to air.
For optimal safety and quality, it’s best to freeze salmon roe in the smallest portions needed. Thaw just what you’ll use immediately.
Enjoy Salmon Roe in Moderation
In Japan, ikura sushi containing salmon roe is a special treat eaten sparingly due to its high cost. Roe provides unique flavor and texture, but it’s also high in sodium.
I recommend enjoying small amounts of roe as a way to spice up dishes. A little goes a long way!
Freezing and Storing Cured Salmon Eggs
FAQ
Can I freeze fresh salmon roe?
How long does salmon roe last in the fridge?
What to do with frozen salmon roe?
How long does salmon roe last?
The salmon roe should be handled with care to prevent bacteria contamination. The roe should be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag. Properly stored, salmon roe will last for up to 8 months in the freezer. Does Salmon Roe Freeze Well? A lot of people think that it does not freeze well, but that’s not true.
Can I eat cured salmon roe while pregnant?
Salmon roe are the eggs of salmon and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, important for the development of the brain and nervous system of the fetus. Cured salmon roe is generally found to be low in mercury and considered safe when eaten in small amounts during pregnancy. Some doctors and health officials may still recommend avoiding fish roe during pregnancy. Fortunately, there are other ways to consume the omega-3 fats that are healthy for both mom and baby, including salmon fillets and dietary supplements. If you consume salmon roe, it should come from a trustworthy source who has cured and handled it properly.
Can salmon roe be refrigerated?
A: You can keep salmon roe in the refrigerator for up to three days after purchase. By following these tips and tricks, you can store salmon roe properly and ensure its long-term freshness and flavor. Remember to refrigerate the roe immediately after purchase, keep it in its original packaging, and freeze it for long-term storage.
Can you freeze salted salmon roe?
Put the salted salmon roe in small clean, dry glass containers. Seal the containers. Put the salmon rot in the freezer, set to the “fast freeze” mode. Make sure there are no temperature drops in the freezer. The salmon roe for freezing must be natural, of high quality and fresh. It must have a uniform color, crumbly structure.