Dry aged Alfonsino 0,5 - 0,7kg (aged for at least 14 days)

English name: Alfonsino
Latin name: BerEnglish Name: Alfonsino
Latin Name: Beryx splendens
Origin: New Zealand
FAO Area: 41
Catch Method: Wild-caught
Recommended Storage Temperature: 0–2°C

Splendid Alfonsino (Beryx splendens) is a fascinating deep-sea fish that earned its name from its vibrant red coloration and unique anatomical features adapted for life in the darkness.

Biology and Lifestyle

Deep-Sea Predator: It inhabits depths ranging from 180 to 1,300 meters, though it is most commonly found around 400–600 meters near seamounts and ridges.
Large Eyes: These fish possess disproportionately large eyes, allowing them to see in the minimal residual light of the deep ocean.
Diet: An active hunter, it feeds primarily on smaller fish, crustaceans (shrimp), and cephalopods.
Distribution: Found in temperate and tropical waters across all world oceans (except the Northeast Pacific).

Culinary Excellence

The Splendid Alfonsino is highly prized for its white, firm flesh with a high fat and Omega-3 content, giving it a rich and succulent flavor.

Characteristics and Taste

Appearance: Distinctive large eyes adapted for depths up to 1,000 meters and a bright red to silvery-pink hue.
Texture and Flavor: Features a firm, white-to-pinkish texture with a delicate, sweet taste and a pronounced umami profile.
Fat Content: Thanks to the high proportion of fish oil, the meat remains incredibly juicy even after cooking.

Culinary Uses

Japanese Sushi (Kinmedai): In Japan, it is considered a premium ingredient. It is often served with the skin on, lightly seared with a torch (aburi) to release the oils and add a smoky aroma.
Baking and Grilling: The firm skin becomes beautifully crisp when exposed to high heat, while the flesh inside stays tender.
Soups and Stocks: The head and bones are frequently used to create rich fish stocks, such as for a traditional bouillabaisse.
yx splendens
Country of origin: Senegal
FAO: 34
Catch method: Wild catch (Lines and hooks)
Recommended storage temperature : 0-2°C

The Splended Alfonsino is widespread almost all over the world and inhabits depths of up to about 750 m for which it is adapted with unusually large eyes. The scales of the sawfly are thorny. The back, head and fins are markedly red, the hips and abdomen are often white. It grows up to a length of 60 cm and weighs about 1.5 kg. Its juicy delicious meat is ideal for frying or baking in the oven. Charcoal barbecues are popular in the Canary Islands.