Ever had a meal so incredibly delicious, you just couldn’t stop? You know, that moment where your taste buds are singing, but a little voice in the back of your head whispers, ‘Maybe just one more bite…?’ Well, today, we’re talking about a fish that takes that ‘one more bite’ warning to a whole new, surprisingly slippery level.
I recently stumbled upon a fascinating tidbit on Reddit (where else?) that blew my mind and, frankly, made me rethink my next seafood order. Turns out, there’s a fish called Escolar (sometimes sneakily marketed as ‘white tuna’ or ‘butterfish’) that, while undeniably tasty, comes with a peculiar side effect if you overindulge. We’re talking about a type of diarrhea known as keriorrhea.
What’s Keriorrhea and Why Escolar?
Now, before you wrinkle your nose, let’s understand why this happens. Escolar is packed with a unique type of wax ester called gempylotoxin. Unlike the triglycerides found in most fish oils, our bodies simply aren’t equipped to properly digest these wax esters. So, what happens? They pass right through your digestive system, undigested, leading to an oily, sometimes orange-colored, and often uncontrollable, discharge. Yeah, I know. Not exactly the glamorous part of fine dining.
The ‘Too Much’ Factor
The key here is ‘too much.’ A small, modest portion of Escolar, especially if properly cooked to render some of the oil, might be perfectly fine for many people. But go for a generous serving, or mix it with other rich foods, and you might find yourself in a rather uncomfortable predicament. It’s like your body’s way of saying, ‘Hey, I appreciate the effort, but I’m not a grease trap!’
Why Is This Fish Still on Menus?
So, why is this fish still gracing plates in restaurants around the world? Simple: it’s delicious! Escolar boasts a rich, buttery flavor and a firm, flaky texture that makes it incredibly appealing to seafood lovers. The problem often arises because it’s sometimes mislabeled or sold as more common, less problematic fish like tuna or even cod. This can lead unsuspecting diners to eat larger portions than they should, thinking it’s just another piece of ‘white tuna’ or ‘butterfish.’
The Slippery Takeaway
So, what’s the takeaway from this slippery tale? Well, for starters, always ask your server about the fish you’re ordering, especially if it’s labeled generically. Don’t be afraid to be curious! And if you do decide to try Escolar, remember: moderation is absolutely key. Think of it as a culinary adventure with a built-in, albeit slightly messy, cautionary tale. You’ve been warned – in the most delightful, yet potentially disastrous, way possible!