Tricks
This fish, more commonly known as oilfish, contains gempylotoxin — a waxy substance that is not metabolized at all. The toxin doesn’t do much harm, but it can cause indigestion. To reduce the levels of gempylotoxin, the fish should be fried or grilled.
Fresh fish always has shiny scales and clear eyes. Take a fish in your hands and look — a spoiled fish will have its tail lowered weakly. Dry fins and gray gills instead of bright red ones also point to staleness.