salmon bellies

we were at the west side santa cruz farmer's market last weekend when we came across a most interesting item. the fishmonger was selling an item that was completely new to us. salmon bellies. they are thin strips, about an inch wide, an inch deep, and eight inches long. the fish guy told us that they are the fattiest part of the salmon. that should be understood to mean "delicious and lots of omega-3 fatty acids." we skewered them up, tossed on some dill weed, and cooked them up on our trusty weber.

they were fantastic; although eating them was definitely a messy affair. you really have to get in there with your fingers and teeth to ensure that you aren't losing any precious fatty meat, but for me that actually adds something to a meal. the best part of these scrumptious little bellies is that they were $3/pound. we can't get potatoes for $3/pound at the west side market, let alone fish. these bellies are my new favorite thing to grill, and i would highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for something a little different. that is my testimonial.