While raw fish may seem like a strange dinner choice for some, it is actually quite delicious when prepared properly. Raw fish is often used in sushi, but can also be served on crackers, toast, or in a number of other ways. For best results, be sure to start with quality quality fish. In addition, be sure to keep your working surfaces sanitary in order to prevent the spread of food borne disease.

Choose High Quality Fish

One of the most important steps that you must take when preparing raw fish at home is to start with a high quality product. In the case of fish, a high quality product refers to fish that is fresh. There are a number of ways to determine whether or not the fish at your local grocery store is fresh. First, the flesh of the fish should be relatively translucent, and should appear damp while not being wet. In addition, the eye of the fish should be clear and shiny. Finally, avoid seafood that gives off a strong "fishy" odor. Fresh fish should not produce a strong smell.

Maintain Sanitary Working Surfaces

Once you make your purchase and get the fish home, it is important to ensure that you follow some basic sanitary precautions in order to prevent food borne illness. Clear a working space in your kitchen. On the counter top, place a large wooden cutting board that has been thoroughly washed and dried. If you are preparing other food items at the same time as the raw fish, make sure to use separate cutting boards as well as knives for the different food items. Using the same cutting board can easily transfer germs from one food item to another. Finally, be sure to carefully wash your hands before working with the raw fish.

Use a Sharp Knife to Prepare the Fish

When preparing raw fish, it is essential that you use a high quality, sharp knife to cut the fish. With raw fish, half of the meal is in the appearance. Therefore, in order to produce a product that both looks and tastes delicious, you must use a sharp chef's knife. The knife should be able to easily cut through large pieces of meat with one slice. If you have to use the knife as a saw, it is not sharp enough.

Keep the Fish Cold

Finally, in order to prevent any possible food borne disease, be sure to keep the fish cold at all times. Before the meal begins, be sure to keep the fish in the refrigerator, and bring out only immediately before serving. If, however, you are doing a buffet, you will need to change your methodology slightly. In this case, the fish should be kept over a bed of crushed ice in order to maintain a lower temperature. Crushed ice can typically be easily purchased at your local grocery store.