What is scrod? Is scrod the same as cod? And why is there a wooded “Sacred Cod” suspended over the public gallery in the Massachusetts House of Representatives? Read on to learn more about the curious history of scrod fish in New England.
Wait, scrod isn’t a fish? Nope! In fact, it can be several, and simply refers to a young haddock, cod, or any similar fish. You can still find scrod on the menu at many restaurants, and while it may seem confusing, it’s simply a term that means “catch of the day” for your average mild, white fish.
The Legend of the Sacred Cod (Or Is It Scrod?)
There is, of course, no such fish as “scrod” in New England waters or anywhere else. The term began years ago when fishing schooners would return from the Grand Banks to the Boston fish pier, loaded with fish ready to be auctioned off. Now, fancy hotels like, for instance, the Parker House (still going strong) didn’t want to serve fish that came out of the bottom of any ship’s hold. It would be old, flabby, and maybe soft from the weight of each succeeding day’s catch on top of it. To go along with its famous rolls, the Parker House wanted only the small, choice, firm fresh fish from the top layers.
Of course, the Parker House maître d’ couldn’t predict what sort of fish would be on the top layer. If he printed the menu featuring haddock and the top layer turned out to be pollack — well, he might get away with it in Kansas City, but not in Boston. So what to do? The answer was simple. He coined a name for a new seafood. He called it “scrod.” (Possibly he was making a contraction of “sacred cod”?)
Haddock, cod, pollack, and hake are all related and all caught off the New England coast but, for the most part, “scrod” is either haddock or cod. If both are fresh, properly prepared, and cooked without skin, it’s pretty difficult to tell the difference.
Differences between haddock and cod
FAQ
What is another name for scrod?
What is the difference between cod and scrod?
What fish is the same as haddock?
What is a substitute for scrod?
What is the difference between scrod and Haddock?
Scrod is not actually a type of fish, but rather a term used to describe young cod or haddock that weigh between one and three pounds. Haddock, on the other hand, is a specific type of fish that is found in the North Atlantic Ocean. So, to summarize: scrod refers to a size range of young cod or haddock, while haddock is a distinct species of fish.
Is scrod a fish?
Some claim that they prefer scrod to haddock and cod, leading us to the awkward task of debunking a myth they’ve believed all their lives: that scrod is, in fact, a species of fish. Wait, scrod isn’t a fish? Nope! In fact, it can be several, and simply refers to a young haddock, cod, or any similar fish.
Do you like scrod better than cod or haddock?
You don’t like scrod better than cod or haddock. Here’s why. Many times, we have had customers ask our cashiers, “Do you ever sell scrod?” Some claim that they prefer scrod to haddock and cod, leading us to the awkward task of debunking a myth they’ve believed all their lives: that scrod is, in fact, a species of fish. Wait, scrod isn’t a fish?
Is Haddock a fish?
Haddock is a saltwater fish found in the North Atlantic Ocean and is a member of the cod family. It is a popular food fish that is known for its mild, sweet flavor and firm, white flesh. Haddock can be found in the waters off the coast of North America and Europe and is a common ingredient in many traditional dishes, such as fish and chips.