Flavour files: Freshwater Fish – one of our local gems.
Fishing in and around Thunder Bay, Ontario is both a local pastime and a draw for visitors looking to experience the rugged beauty of northwestern Ontario. Thunder Bay offers access to world-class freshwater fishing, with a wide variety of species, easily accessible lakes and rivers, and opportunities for both shore and boat fishing. Talk to any fishing enthusiast, and they’ll tell you where the ‘best’ place is to pull out their favourite freshwater offering. Lake Trout, salmon, bass, northern pike, speckled trout and on and on. I have some great memories of ‘smelting’ with my Dad and Grandfather.
In addition to fish being a delicious addition to your dinner offerings, it has the added benefit of being a healthy meat alternative. Lower in calories and saturated fats than red meat for heart health. High in lean protein for muscle support, packed with omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins D & B12 for bone health and immune function.
Mackenzie Lockyer joined his father John at ACO Services here in Thunder Bay providing computer sales and service. John speaks with pride in his voice as he describes how Mack expanded their offerings and in 2017 took the family show on the road. He now operates ACO Marketing from Ottawa, providing a wide range of promotional services across Canada.
Mack’s cooking skills encompass so many aspects of food. He doesn’t skimp on ingredient quality, uses the best techniques showcasing each item and tries to use all natural ingredients. No glucose/fructose or salt. He and his wife Dasha look for other healthy options that add flavour without using salt as their ‘cheating saviour.’
Some of their favourite meals come from shopping at a Ukrainian grocery store (Dasha is Ukrainian). Many people there have similar concepts of cooking and they find great ingredients. Less is more is always an unspoken rule in his cookbook, says Mack. Keep it simple and focus on the quality of the ingredients.
I’ve attached a few pics of Mack’s other dishes because as well as delicious and healthy, Mack’s presentation is gorgeous. From food placement, to plateware and finally table set-up, he brings the family dining experience to another level. Enjoy!
Rainbow Trout
- Mix 1 tsp each of onion powder, cumin, garlic powder and paprika with ½ tsp of chili powder and 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Pat your fish dry and spread the mixture generously to cover
- Bake at 350 in the oven or on the grill for 9-10 minutes per inch of fish (measure at the thickest point)
- In a second bowl, mix: two chopped mangoes, two chopped avocados, cilantro, red onion and fresh lime juice
- Place cooked fish over rice or couscous and top generously with mango salad.
We’d love to share your favourite recipe & story! Send any questions or comments: tbayflavourfiles@gmail.com.
