Pacific Whiting (Pacific Hake) from Washington Coast | Video
Pacific Whiting (Pacific Hake) from Washington’s Coast
Pacific Whiting, also called Pacific Hake (Merluccius productus), is a wild-caught West Coast whitefish with a mild flavor and notably delicate texture. This video gives a practical look at a species that is important to the Pacific Northwest seafood industry.
Read our complete Pacific Whiting guide or shop Pacific Whiting / Pacific Hake. Our current product is sold frozen HGT rather than as a ready-cut fillet.
What Makes Pacific Whiting Different?
Pacific Whiting belongs to the hake family Merlucciidae. Pacific cod and Alaska pollock belong to Gadidae. They are all in the order Gadiformes, but Pacific Whiting is not in the same family as cod or pollock.
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Pacific Whiting is generally softer and more delicate than Pacific cod, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. That softer texture affects handling as well as cooking: thaw it carefully, minimize unnecessary handling, and avoid overcooking.
NOAA Fisheries describes U.S. wild-caught Pacific Whiting as sustainably managed and responsibly harvested under U.S. regulations. It is an abundant and commercially important West Coast species.
Simple Pan-Frying Method
- Thaw the fish safely in the refrigerator.
- Portion or fillet as desired, then pat the surface dry. Season with salt and pepper.
- For a crisp coating, lightly dust with flour or cornmeal.
- Cook in a lightly oiled skillet, handling the delicate flesh carefully.
- Cook finfish to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Cooking time varies with thickness, portion size, starting temperature, and equipment, so internal temperature is more reliable than a fixed number of minutes per side.
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Best Uses
Pacific Whiting works especially well for pan-frying, baking, fish tacos, chowder, fish cakes, and other dishes where a tender whitefish is desirable. For detailed techniques, temperatures, and recipes, see our Pacific Whiting cooking guide.
From Our West Coast Seafood Experience
From decades of working with West Coast seafood and groundfish, one practical point matters most with Pacific Whiting: do not treat it exactly like a thick, firm Pacific cod fillet. Keep it cold, thaw it carefully, pat it dry, and avoid unnecessary handling. Its naturally delicate texture is part of the character of the species, not by itself a sign of poor quality.
Pacific Whiting FAQ
Is Pacific Whiting the same as Pacific Hake?
Yes. Both names commonly refer to Merluccius productus.
Is Pacific Whiting in the same family as cod?
No. Pacific Whiting is in Merlucciidae; Pacific cod is in Gadidae. Both are in the order Gadiformes.
Is Pacific Whiting sustainable?
NOAA Fisheries describes U.S. wild-caught Pacific Whiting as sustainably managed and responsibly harvested under U.S. regulations.
Is the Global Seafoods product a ready-cut fillet?
No. The current product is sold frozen HGT and can be portioned or filleted after thawing.
Learn More About Pacific Whiting
Complete Pacific Whiting Guide | How to Cook Pacific Whiting | Shop Pacific Whiting / Pacific Hake
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