What is Pearl Danio? How much does it cost?

Among the countless familiar seafood varieties on the market, the “pearl string” fish (cá chuỗi ngọc) is a species that makes many people curious the first time they hear about it. So, what exactly is the pearl string fish, where does it originate from, what are its characteristics, and what delicious dishes can be prepared with it? In this article by Ola Squid, let’s explore the details to better understand the pearl string fish and why more and more people are looking to purchase this fish!

1. What is the pearl string fish?

The pearl string fish is a freshwater species notable for its elongated, slightly flattened body, small head, and pointed mouth with sharp teeth that help it hunt effectively. The most impressive feature lies in its fine scales arranged tightly together, which shimmer like a layer of pearls when they catch the light, hence the name “pearl string” (chuỗi ngọc).

This fish has high adaptability, living mainly in rivers, streams, natural lakes, swamps, or clean water ponds with mild currents and abundant food. In Vietnam, the fish is found in the Mekong Delta, several Central rivers, and large lakes in the Central Highlands, and it is also distributed in many Southeast Asian countries with similar ecological conditions.

The pearl string fish usually forages in the early morning and late evening, feeding primarily on small organisms such as insects, shrimp, and algae. Thanks to its resilient vitality and high adaptability, this fish not only survives well in natural environments but can also be farmed in artificial conditions to meet food demands and contribute to protecting aquatic resources.

2. Nutritional value of the pearl string fish

The pearl string fish impresses with its characteristic crunchy texture and is highly valued for its abundant nutritional content.

• Rich in high-quality protein: Fish meat provides a source of easily digestible protein, supporting muscle development, tissue regeneration, and providing energy without causing heaviness like some red meats.
• Abundant in omega-3, omega-6, and DHA: In 100g of fish meat, there is about 0.54g of DHA, which is good for the brain development of young children and pregnant women, as well as helping to enhance memory and protect cardiovascular health.
• Good for the heart and blood circulation: Omega-3 helps reduce bad cholesterol, improve blood circulation, and limit the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Supplementing essential vitamins and minerals: The fish contains vitamins A, D, B6, B12 along with phosphorus, calcium, selenium… contributing to strong bones and teeth, supporting metabolism, and enhancing the immune system.
• Supporting skin beauty and anti-aging: Thanks to micronutrients and natural collagen, fish meat helps maintain skin elasticity and limits wrinkles.

3. How much does the pearl string fish cost?

The price of pearl string fish on the market is not fixed but changes depending on many factors. First is the size – large, thick, firm-fleshed fish often have higher prices due to their superior quality and suitability for preparing a variety of dishes.

Origin is also an important factor. Fish caught naturally in rivers and large lakes are often preferred because the meat is fragrant and firm, therefore the price is slightly higher compared to farmed fish. Meanwhile, farmed fish have the advantage of a stable supply and a lower price, suitable for regular consumption needs.

In addition, the price also depends on the season and the seller. When supply is scarce, prices may rise slightly and conversely, during the abundant season, the price will be more reasonable. To buy fresh, delicious fish at a reasonable cost, you should choose reputable addresses, compare prices in many places, and prioritize units with clear product origins.

4. What delicious dishes can be made with pearl string fish?

With firm flesh, natural sweetness, and minimal fishiness, the pearl string fish can be processed into many attractive dishes, suitable for both family meals and gatherings.

4.1. Pearl string fish hotpot

Ingredients to prepare:

• 1 pearl string fish (about 1 – 1.5kg)
• 500g pork marrow bones, 1 bunch of dill
• 4 ripe tomatoes, 1 pineapple
• Shallots, garlic, a small knob of ginger
• Basic seasonings: salt, sugar, fish sauce, pepper

Steps to make fish hotpot:

• First, wash the pork bones and blanch them in boiling water to remove impurities. Then, simmer them in a pot with enough water, skimming off the foam regularly so the broth is clear and sweet.
• When the bone broth is flavorful, add the chopped tomatoes and pineapple to the pot to create an eye-catching color and a mild sour taste. Sauté shallots, garlic, and ginger until fragrant, then add to the pot, adjusting the seasoning to balance.
• Finally, add pieces of the pearl string fish when the water is boiling, cook for another 5-7 minutes until the fish is just cooked through and the meat is firm. Sprinkle with dill, then turn off the heat. This hotpot is best served hot, accompanied by fresh vermicelli noodles and various raw vegetables as desired.

4.2. Caramelized fish in clay pot

Ingredients to prepare:

• 1 pearl string fish (about 1kg)
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce, 1 shallot
• 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2-3 fresh chili peppers, 2-3 garlic cloves

Method:

• After cleaning, let the fish dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces so it doesn’t break when stewing. Mince shallots, garlic, and chilies, then mix with fish sauce, sugar, and salt to create a rich seasoning mixture. Marinate the fish for about 15-20 minutes so each layer of meat is evenly seasoned.
• Arrange the fish in a clay pot, add a little water just enough to cover the fish, and bring to a boil. When it starts boiling, reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce thickens, the fish is cooked tender, and it gives off an attractive aroma.
• Caramelized pearl string fish is best served hot with white rice, accompanied by some raw vegetables to balance the rich, salty, and sweet taste.

4.3. Grilled fish with chili salt

Ingredients to prepare:

• 1 pearl string fish (about 1kg)
• 2 tablespoons sea salt, 1 lime
• 2-3 garlic cloves, 2-3 fresh chili peppers
• Raw vegetables like lettuce, cilantro

Instructions for making grilled fish with chili salt:

• After the fish is cleaned, use a knife to make light incisions on the body so the seasoning penetrates more easily. Mince chilies and garlic, then mix with salt and a little lime juice to create a rich marinating mixture.
• Rub the seasoning evenly over the fish, both outside and inside the belly, then let it sit for about 15-20 minutes for the fish to absorb.
• Place the fish on a charcoal grill or in the oven and grill until the skin is golden brown and crispy, with a characteristic aroma. When enjoying, roll the fish with raw vegetables and vermicelli to experience the natural sweetness of the fish meat blended with the attractive salty and spicy flavor of chili salt.

4.4. Steamed fish with beer

Ingredients to prepare:

• 1 pearl string fish (about 1kg)
• 1 can of beer, 1 piece of fresh ginger
• 1 bunch of dill, 1 bunch of green onions
• 2-3 stalks of lemongrass

Detailed method is as follows:

• After cleaning, use a knife to make light incisions on the fish body so the fish cooks quickly and absorbs flavor better. Wash ginger and lemongrass, slice thinly, and place at the bottom of the steamer.
• Pour beer into the pot enough to create steam when heated. Place the fish on the steamer tray, cover tightly, and steam for about 10-15 minutes until the fish meat is cooked through, white, and has a mild aroma.
• When the fish is just cooked, sprinkle the chopped green onions and dill on top to enhance the flavor. Steamed pearl string fish with beer is best enjoyed hot, served with fresh vermicelli and a dipping sauce.

4.5. Braised fish with pickled mustard greens

Ingredients to prepare:

• 1 pearl string fish (about 1kg)
• 1 shallot, 1 bowl of pickled mustard greens
• 2 ripe tomatoes, 2-3 garlic cloves
• Basic seasonings: salt, fish sauce, pepper

Method:

• After cleaning, let the fish dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces to keep it firm while braising. Rinse the pickled greens multiple times to reduce saltiness and sourness, then squeeze dry. Cut tomatoes into wedges, mince shallots and garlic.
• Then heat a pan with a little oil, sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant, then add tomatoes and stir until soft and nicely colored. Next, add the pickled greens and stir-fry briefly to release the aroma, then arrange the fish on top.
• Season to taste, add a little water and braise on low heat until the fish is cooked and the broth has a characteristic tangy flavor. Braised pearl string fish with pickled greens has a harmonious flavor, very suitable to enjoy hot with white rice.

See more similar delicious dishes:

• What to cook with catfish (cá ngát)? Top 11 super delicious rice-friendly dishes
• What to cook with cobia (cá bớp)? Top 16 attractive processing recipes
• What to cook with grass carp (cá trắm)? 14 easy dishes for family meals

If you are looking for other premium seafood, don’t miss out on our specialty products at Ola Squid’s store.

5. Instructions for storing pearl string fish

To keep the pearl string fish fresh, with its natural sweetness, and to ensure food safety, you should choose a storage method suitable for your usage time.

• Daily storage (under 24 hours):

If processing immediately, you need to clean the fish, remove the entrails, and let it dry completely. Then wrap tightly with plastic wrap or place in a covered container and store in the refrigerator compartment at 0-4°C. You can cover it with a thin layer of ice to maintain the cold temperature while avoiding direct contact with other foods.

• Storage for 2-3 days:

In case you are not using it immediately, you can chill the fish with ice. Arrange the fish alternating with layers of ice in a clean container or large box, ensuring the temperature remains low enough. When the ice melts, replace it with new ice to limit the loss of quality.

• Long-term storage (over 1 week):

After cleaning, divide the fish into individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then put in a vacuum bag or sealed container before placing in the freezer at -18°C. When needed, defrost slowly in the refrigerator or soak in cold water; avoid using hot water so as not to affect the quality of the fish meat.

• Traditional methods:

In addition, you can salt the fish for short-term preservation when you don’t have a refrigerator, or dry and smoke it if you want to prepare it as long-term food.

Through the shares above, you surely understand what the pearl string fish is, its characteristics, its nutritional value, and what attractive dishes can be prepared for family meals. If you love to explore more interesting knowledge about seafood and recipes for many other delicious dishes, then visit the Culinary Corner of Ola Squid now! Also, explore our premium dried products at dried squid snacks.