How to Eat Sea Lamprey, The World Most Hideous Fish

Lampreys, with their nightmarish appearance and parasitic lifestyle, are perhaps one of the most surprising delicacies from history. In the Middle Ages, they were highly prized, especially among the royal families of Europe. One notable lamprey enthusiast was King Henry I of England, who, according to historical accounts, met his end after indulging excessively in this peculiar fish. Despite warnings from his physician, the king couldn't resist the temptation, ultimately leading to his demise. This begs the question: are lampreys dangerous to humans?

Can You Eat Sea Lampreys?

Contrary to the morbid tale of King Henry I, lampreys are not inherently dangerous to humans. Lars Rudstam, director of the Cornell Biological Field Station in Bridgeport, New York, assures that lampreys are a viable choice for food. He describes them as lacking bones and having a unique taste, akin to squid. Their texture and flavor make them an intriguing option for those adventurous enough to try.

The Life and Times of Sea Lampreys

Sea lampreys are born blind and sustain themselves by filtering microorganisms from the water. As they mature, these jawless fish develop a distinctive suction-cup mouth filled with rows of sharp teeth. They use this mouth to latch onto other fish, including dolphins, and feed on their host's blood and bodily fluids. This parasitic relationship often leads to the host's death, with a single sea lamprey capable of killing up to 40 different fish annually. The lamprey's reproductive process is equally unsettling; the male wraps around the female, squeezing until her eggs are released. Despite their gruesome life cycle, lampreys have captivated culinary enthusiasts for centuries.

How to Cook and Eat Sea Lampreys

In the United Kingdom, lampreys have become an endangered species, partly due to their continued culinary demand. To prepare a lamprey dish, traditional methods involve soaking the fish in their own blood for a couple of days. This process is believed to enhance their flavor, making them ready for various culinary applications. The preparation might sound macabre, but those who have tasted lamprey often describe it as "delectable." A writer for Vice, who attended a dinner hosted by the Sea Lamprey Society in Denmark, noted that lamprey bordelaise was delicious, with a taste that neither resembled fish nor meat.

What Does a Sea Lamprey Taste Like?

Their meat is often described as having a unique texture and flavor, not easily comparable to other seafood or meat. The taste can be likened to a cross between squid and something entirely its own. As for cooking, lampreys can be prepared in various ways, including stewing, grilling, or even making them into a rich bordelaise sauce. The key is to embrace their distinctiveness and experiment with flavors that complement their unique taste profile.