The Spruce Eats: What Is Steelhead Trout? Steelhead trout is a type steelhead trout fish native to the West Coast and Alaska, with a flavor and appearance similar to wild salmon.
Native to the West Coast and Alaska, steelhead trout is a silvery fish with a similar taste and look as Pacific salmon. Steaks, fillets, and whole fish are sold in fish markets around the country, and are popular on restaurant menus as well. Fresh or frozen steelhead trout can be prepared in a number of ways and styles. Steelhead trout lacks the fatty mouthfeel of salmon, offering a more delicate flavor and flaky texture.
Steelhead trout is often mistaken for salmon, as they both have bright orange-pink flesh that cooks to opaque. Substitute steelhead trout for salmon in most recipes. Compared to Atlantic salmon, which is often found in thick cuts, steelhead trout are smaller and thinner, and cook more quickly. Steelhead trout is often confused with rainbow trout. Rainbow trout tend to be smaller, with paler flesh and a gamier flavor. Steelhead trout can be substituted for rainbow trout in most recipes. Depending on your location you’ll find it at your local fishmonger or supermarket fresh or frozen with farmed and wild-caught varieties available.
It’s most commonly available as fillets, but you’ll occasionally see it whole as well. You can also order steelhead trout online. Once cooked, steelhead trout will keep in the fridge for about three days. Get daily tips and expert advice to help you take your cooking skills to the next level. There’s more to Riverence steelhead than great taste and texture. Rated as a Monterey Bay Seafood Watch “Best Choice” green option, our fish are respectfully raised from our own eggs alongside Idaho’s Snake River. We’re focused on protecting wild salmon and trout through responsible aquaculture, and being good stewards of the environment.
We respect your privacy and do not tolerate spam. Internet Explorer lacks support for the features of this website. About Pacific salmon and steelhead have a dynamic life cycle that includes time in fresh and saltwater habitats. These fish are born in freshwater streams and rivers, migrate to coastal estuaries, then enter the ocean where they mature.