Dive into Flavor: What Does Cod Liver Oil Taste Like?

Most people appear disgusted when we mention liver as food.

But you are missing out if you have not tried it yet.

And today, our focus is on cod liver, particularly cod liver oil.

Yes, we are talking about those tiny, yellow, egg-shaped capsules.

These supplements are packed with health benefits which we will discuss later.

Now you know that cod liver oil is healthy.

Some of you have tasted it and got turned off by its taste.

But for those who don’t know, “what does cod liver oil taste like?”.

We will answer this question today and more. Keep reading below.

What is Cod Liver Oil?

Cod liver oil, as the name suggests, is the oil you get from cod livers.

Cods are fish that belong to the Gadidae family.

You may recognize them from the grayish-green to dark brown color and a distinct white line along their sides.

You will mostly find cod liver oil in medicine form.

They come in little capsules that have a golden yellow color.

Most people associate them with their childhood because they are an excellent supplement for children.

Cod liver oil dates back as far as the Vikings era.

The Norsemen enjoyed this oil as much as the fish.

They extracted the oil by placing birch branches over boiling water with the liver on top.

As the water boiled, the liver started to cook and ooze oil.

They would skim and repeat the process multiple times.

The Vikings would hold cod liver oil in high regard.

They are also called the “Gold of the ocean” in Norway.

Cod liver oil also has several therapeutic uses but can also be harmful.

What Does Cod Liver Oil Taste Like?

People hail cod fish for their liver oil. They have a mild, almost chicken-like taste.

However, the liver oil tastes nothing like their flesh.

This oil is a whole food similar to others like olive or sesame oil.

Good quality cod liver oil tastes like fish but is less fishy.

Some cod liver oils also taste pungent and unpleasant to the nose buds.

It also has a fatty taste as it is oil. Some people also get hints of mild sweetness in them.

However, we can attribute this to their taste buds.

We can also compare its taste to Foie gras, a popular dish made from goose and duck liver.

However, fish oil is less rich in flavor. They also have mildly-fishy characteristics but not like tuna.

Cod liver oil has a firmer texture than most oils. But they are not like butter or cheese.

Many dietitians regard the Nordic Naturals supplement as the best option.

If you like the taste of cod liver oil, have a bite of fresh cod liver.

This is how you can get a natural and fresh taste.

You can also get it through supplements in capsule form.

Cod liver oil capsules are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins.

They have a similar composition to other fish oils. But they are richer in vitamins A and D.

They may also reduce inflammation, improve bone health, reduce heart diseases, etc.

However, too much cod liver oil can cause side effects like nausea and tummy problems.

Is Cod Liver Oil Safe For Cooking?

Aside from a dietary supplement, you can also use cod liver oil for cooking.

It is not particular to a specific cuisine.

But some people stress on the benefits of using fish oil for cooking.

If you use fats and oils for cooking, try replacing them with fish oil.

If you don’t mind the taste, cook the whole dish using cod oil.

But you can also add it in small amounts to add beneficial oil to your foods.

You will not taste or smell the fishy flavors as long as there are a lot of seasonings.

For this reason, you can use cod liver oil while making acidic dishes.

A few excellent options include guacamole, fried noodles, potatoes, etc.

You can also use cod liver oil as a dressing for your salads.

Just drizzle a little bit on top, along with mayo, and you are good to go.

Remember to use cod liver oil in small amounts.

They have a high amount of vitamins A and D.

If you go beyond the standard dosage, it can lead to harmful effects on your health.

You will also have foul breath and face stomach problems.

Hence, mixing it with different oils for cooking is the best option.

Conclusion

You might not enjoy the fishy smell and taste of cod liver oil.

But you are missing out on several health benefits if you shy away.

You can start by taking it occasionally after meals.

The taste is unbearable at first. But once you get used to it, there is no turning back.

All in all, cod liver oil is still fish oil. They taste mild and not as strong as other fish oils.

There is little research to back their claims of reducing heart diseases.

But this “gold oil” is the best way to put healthy vitamins into your diet.

Next time someone offers you cod liver oil, do not refuse.