Is Cod and Scrod the Same Fish? Demystifying a Common Seafood Mystery

As seafood lovers, most of us have enjoyed a crispy piece of scrod or flaky white cod fillet at some point. But if you’ve ever scratched your head wondering exactly what scrod is and how it compares to cod you’re not alone. This is one of the most persistent mysteries in the New England seafood scene.

The murky definition and background of scrod has baffled many over the years. I’ve certainly pondered the enigma of this fish that seems to appear on menus yet doesn’t actually exist in the ocean After digging into the history and science behind cod and scrod, I finally feel equipped to offer some clarity on this slippery subject Let’s break down the facts and set the story straight.

What is Scrod?

Scrod is not a distinct species of fish like cod, but rather a general culinary term used primarily in New England. Authentic scrod comes from young, tender cod or haddock taken from the surface layers of fishing boats. The name was originally coined in Boston by restaurant maître d’s who wanted to serve only the freshest catch of the day without promising a specific fish.

Scrod can also sometimes refer more broadly to any young, small whitefish such as pollock, hake or haddock. So while scrod itself is not a real fish, it usually comes from the young versions of established whitefish species. The term has evolved into a menu shortcut for “fresh whitefish fillet.”

Is Scrod Just Young Cod?

Since scrod often comes from juvenile cod, some use the names interchangeably or assume scrod is always baby cod. However, true scrod can also come from other whitefish, mainly haddock. So while there is heavy overlap with cod, scrod should not be considered synonymous with only young cod.

The key distinguishing factor of scrod is its small size and tender texture, rather than belonging to any single fish species. Not all scrod is cod, and not all cod is scrod. The two names can sometimes refer to the same fish, but are not totally interchangeable.

How Does Scrod Taste Compared to Cod?

The flavor of scrod versus cod will depend on the exact fish used. Young cod scrod will taste nearly identical to cod with its sweet, mild, faintly briny flavor. Scrod from haddock, pollock or hake may offer slight variances in taste from cod with subtle differences in sweetness, brininess and fishiness.

Overall though, all these young whitefish have a delicately mild flavor when fresh. So while the taste of scrod and cod can diverge slightly based on fish species, overall they offer an extremely similar eating experience. Expect a clean, neutral palate that absorbs sauces and spices well.

Is There a Texture Difference Between Scrod and Cod?

Again, this depends on the type of fish behind your scrod. Cod scrod will mimic cod’s signature large, moist flakes that hold together well. Scrod from other whitefish may show some subtle textural differences from cod.

Haddock scrod tends to have a bit firmer, less flaky texture compared to cod. Hake or pollock scrod may be slightly softer and more delicate. But in general, the tender nature of scrod aligns closely with cod texture – just with smaller flake size given the younger fish.

Why is Scrod Cheaper Than Cod if They’re Similar?

Scrod’s smaller sizing is the main driver of its lower price point compared to cod fillets. Smaller fish require less time and feed to reach harvest size, making them cheaper to produce. Compact scrod fillets also yield a lower total edible weight.

The generic “scrod” label also allows fishermen to sell cheaper, less popular fish under one marketable name. Overall, the cost savings comes from the younger age and smaller size of scrod fish. Even when it comes from baby cod, the tiny fillets command a discount versus full-grown cod portions.

Does Scrod Have Special Meaning in New England?

Scrod holds a special place in New England cuisine and culture, especially in the Boston area where the name first emerged in restaurants like the historic Parker House Hotel. Some accounts claim the term “scrod” was originally a contraction of “sacred cod,” linking it to the salt cod history that dominated early New England fishing.

A carved wooden sacred cod also famously hangs in the Massachusetts State House as a historic emblem of the cod fishing industry’s economic importance. So while scrod itself may be shrouded in mystery, the broader cultural symbolism of fresh whitefish in New England is undeniable.

Is Scrod Better Than Cod?

With so much overlap between scrod and cod, is one inherently better? It depends on your priorities. Scrod wins for having the most tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and usually comes with an appealing value price. However, cod offers the versatility of larger fillet sizes and a reliably meaty mouthfeel.

For many recipes, the two fish can be used interchangeably. Where texture and tenderness are paramount, like in fish stews or tacos, scrod may have an advantage. For heartier preparations like fish and chips, cod could be the way to go. But both offer classic, fool-proof New England flavor.

Verdict: Not Interchangeable, But Hard to Tell Apart

After sorting through their murky backstories, we can conclude cod and scrod are close cousins – but not identical twins. Scrod draws from a flexible pool of young whitefish, while cod denotes fish from a specific species. Their taste, texture and cost offer more similarities than differences thanks to their shared family tree.

While not interchangeable names, even experienced seafood pros admit scrod and cod offer remarkably similar eating experiences. The ever-evolving definition of scrod leaves room for ambiguity. But we can say definitively that cod and scrod provide two uniquely New England takes on the same classic whitefish.

So next time you peruse a menu with both options, you can feel confident ordering either one. They each channel the timeless flavor that put New England seafood on the map. And remember that asking your server for details is your best bet if you want to know exactly what type of fish swims behind today’s scrod special!