Large products Argentina
Writes: Laura Litvin
Instagram @laulitvin
His bright yellow skin mesmerizes immediately. Large in size, this fish is an expert swimmer who fights fiercely until the last minute to avoid being caught. Not everyone has the expertise to catch it; That is why it is known as the “Tiger of the Rivers”. Every year sport fishermen from all over the world visit the Argentine Coast in search of the great trophies (which are returned to the water immediately after the photo). Argentina holds world records for the species approved by the IGFA (International Game Fish Associations) and is the most sought-after native freshwater species internationally. Thus, this emblematic fish of the La Plata Basin is the tourist ambassador of sport fishing in Argentina. In the kitchen, its firm meat is adored by the inhabitants of the area and by tourists, who fall for its special flavor.
Dorado Photo: Rodrigo Ruiz Ciancia
Present and future
The proliferation of dorado faces several challenges: mainly that both fishermen and the gastronomy respect the strict closures for their capture and that aquaculture is promoted. Every year the "Fiesta del Dorado" is held in the town of Paso de la Patria, in the province of Corrientes, on the banks of the Paraná River. It is an attractive party: not only does the fishing competition take place, but there are also folkloric shows and cultural activities. But it is remarkable to observe the decrease in copies and the lower size of the gold in each edition, although the number of contestants increases. This is a consequence of altered water regimes, habitat modification, excessive commercial fishing, pollution, and the introduction of exotic species. All of this speaks of a loss in biodiversity. As a further measure of protection, since 2012 its export has been prohibited. Therefore, those who visit Argentine Mesopotamia will have the privilege of tasting dorado.
In the kitchen
Its skin enhances any dish and its firm meat is very tasty due to its good proportion of fat. You need a skilled cook who knows how to remove the Y-shaped cord of thorns without breaking the meat. In the country of the grill, the usual thing is to enjoy it on the grill and share it with friends. In the restaurants of the Litoral, the milanesas and Argentine empanadas stuffed with this fish are a classic. El dorado always summons a good table.
