Back in the day it was run by Darrens Granddad, Charlie, who sold fish and other goods from back of a horse and cart in and around Dover until securing a shop in Deal town.

He then went on to move into 118 in the high street and ran the fishmongers and game supplier alongside his son, Stephen, selling fish, animal feeds, game and poultry.

When stephen sadly passed, it was left to Darren to take over the reins and move the business on to keep up with the changing times.

Focussing on sustainably caught and local produce Darren created a niche market for the new and old in the town.

Deal slowly grew to be known as ‘foodies haven’ and so visitors, tourists and locals were consistently hungry for quality fresh fish.

In addition to providing what the customers already knew they wanted, we employed a French trained chef to produce homemade recipes available for customers to buy frozen to Heat n Eat at home, and this proved popular.

Then COVID hit and, as we were providing an essential service, we continued to trade and offered home deliveries. This proved to be a massive hit and so the business grew.

Sacha, Darren’s partner implemented a re-branding and gave the shop a whole new look which has transferred over to the new much larger premises, just down the road from 118.

The old Rooks building has now become a Fishmongers and Street Food Bar all under one roof. Offering the same quality fish and seafood but with the addition of a seafood station, a large selection of frozen seafood, Chef made ‘Heat n Eat’ frozen ready meals, bisques, curries, pates, etc.

Freshly made sandwiches, salads, hot street food from around the globe and beers, wines, champagne and Caviar.

There are now fewer Fishmongers surviving due to climate change, fishing industry laws going against them and less people working in the profession, but Jenkins and Son are thriving, due to their ability to diversify and evolve with the times, ensuring they are always giving customers what they want. 

It is well worth a visit if you are in Kent.

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We are not only reducing our carbon footprint but eating fish when it’s at its best and supporting local businesses. 

Also, by buying local, we are not encouraging suppliers to fund force bred fish and in doing so, supporting more wild and more sustainable methods. 

All year round: 

• Herring 
• Anchovy
• Sardines
• Mackerel

Spring / Summer:

• Plaice 
• Dover Sole 

Autumn / Winter 

• Mussels
• Oysters
• Crab
• Squid
• Pollock
• Cod
• Ray
• Huss

So, as and when we can, we should eat locally caught fish, as in the long run, it is good for us, the environment and the fishing industry, as a whole.

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It is believed that as the first distribution point of street food, small fried fish were sold on the streets in ancient Greece. Street food was widely consumed by poor urban residents of ancient Rome whose tenement homes did not have ovens or hearths. Street food was purchased because urban poor did not have kitchens in their homes.

Unfortunately, evidence of the variety of food on offer is scant. Yet Roman excavations within the Square Mile nearly always include oyster shells — a ubiquitous food eaten by the lowest classes at a time when the shellfish was more commonly found in British waters.

So, it seems, fish has always played a part as a healthy available food source through history.

Now across the globe, street food, has become synonymous with fast food, as populations increasingly struggle to keep pace with their hectic lifestyles. Street vendors offer hot fresh, lip smacking snacks which are very filling and absolute value for money. Take-out food,  snacks, and fast food are synonymous with street food and all of these can be purchased on the foot path without entering a building, making them easily available, and often half the price of restaurant food. 

One of the reasons for the global appeal of street food is its accessibility. Unlike fine dining restaurants, street food is affordable and readily available. It allows people to experience the authentic flavours of a culture without breaking the bank. From the mouthwatering tacos of Mexico to the tantalizing satay of Southeast Asia, street food offers a taste of the world in a single bite.

Furthermore, street food has also become a platform for culinary innovation. Talented chefs and aspiring entrepreneurs are using street food as a stepping stone to showcase their creativity and experiment with new flavours. This has led to the emergence of fusion cuisines and unique culinary creations that push the boundaries of traditional street food.

The evolution of street food from local delights to global sensations is a testament to its rich history and cultural significance. From its humble beginnings in ancient marketplaces to its current status as a culinary phenomenon, street food has always been a reflection of local culture and a catalyst for social interaction. Its accessibility and ability to bring people together have made it a beloved part of the global food scene.

Street food is nothing new and has been practiced by different cultures for thousands of years. It is the simple practice of cooking and serving food or drinks in the street from a mobile structure.

Despite the basic principle of street cooking still being the same, we are now, however, in an era of street food. Food vendors are serving their delicacies from all sorts of creative-looking food trucks, food carts, and stalls making a bit more than just about the food.

The driver of this rise in the popularity of street food is partly due to its cost, variety, convenience, and the social aspect of outdoor street eating in general. And this popularity doesn’t seem to be subsiding anytime soon.

So, the next time you find yourself wandering the streets of a new city or seaside town, be sure to indulge in the flavours of its street food and experience the vibrant tapestry of tastes that this culinary tradition has to offer.

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Just look at Galton Blackiston’s Salt-baked salmon or Nathan Outlaw’s Monkfish with sage, cranberry and pine nut stuffing. Serving a whole large fish as Food Urchin does with his Roast turbot with fennel, tarragon and lemon or this incredible Whole whiting with crab sauce and Jerusalem artichokes really gives Christmas that sense of occasion. Many of us serve smoked salmon as a starter on Christmas Day, but have you ever cured your own? Try Pascal Aussignac’s Maple-cured salmon and serve it with blinis and caviar to really impress your family. And don’t forget shellfish – Lobster Thermidor, Pan-fried scallops with celeriac, apple and hazelnuts and Prawn cocktail with homemade sauce are all incredible dishes that are perfect to serve throughout the festive season.

Click here for more Christmas Fish Recipies

All of the fish and shell fish are available at Jenkins and Son so please pop in and pre-order today.
Don’t forget to let the fishmonger know if you need your fish prepped in any way.

The staff are always willing to advise on cooking methods and sharing recipes too.

And don’t forget to tag us in if you post on social media!

https://www.facebook.com/jenkinsandsonfishandgame/

The post Christmas Dinner Fish Ideas appeared first on Jenkins & Son.

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Deal, Kent, lies a treasure trove of seafood waiting to be discovered.

The rich waters of the English Channel offer a bounty of delicious and nutritious options that can not only tantalise your taste buds but also boost your health.

The Nutritional Powerhouse of Seafood

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

One of the standout features of seafood is its remarkable content of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential for heart health and brain function. These healthy fats have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improved cholesterol levels.

At Jenkins & Son Fishmongers, you can enjoy the rich omega-3 benefits of cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, and trout.

Salmon, in particular, is renowned for its high omega-3 content. These fatty acids not only support cardiovascular health but also play a vital role in reducing inflammation and promoting cognitive function.

Lean Protein

Seafood is an excellent source of high-quality, lean protein.

Fish like cod, haddock, and sole are low in saturated fats, making them a healthier protein option compared to red meat. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and including seafood in your diet can help you meet your daily protein needs without overloading on unhealthy fats.

Rich in Essential Minerals

Seafood offers an array of essential minerals that your body needs for various functions. Some of the notable minerals found in seafood include:

• Iodine: Vital for thyroid function, iodine is abundant in many sea creatures, especially shellfish like crab and lobster.
• Selenium: Known for its antioxidant properties, selenium can be found in fish like tuna and cod. It helps protect your cells from damage and supports your immune system.
• Zinc: Abundant in various seafood, zinc is essential for wound healing, immune function, and overall growth and development.

The diverse selection of seafood at your local fishmonger can help you meet your mineral needs and keep your body functioning optimally.

Vitamins Galore

Seafood is a rich source of essential vitamins, with vitamin D and B vitamins being particularly prevalent. Vitamin D is necessary for strong bones and a robust immune system.

It’s tough to obtain sufficient vitamin D from food alone, but fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines can provide a significant boost, especially if you live in a region with limited sun exposure like the UK.

B vitamins, including B12 and niacin, are essential for energy metabolism and the health of your nervous system. These vitamins are prevalent in many seafood options available in Deal, Kent, such as shellfish and fish like tuna and swordfish.

Choosing Sustainable Seafood

Now that we’ve explored the myriad health benefits of seafood, let’s discuss practical ways to include it in your daily diet. Here are some delicious seafood recipes to get you started:

Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Dill

Marinate salmon fillets in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill. Grill until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. This dish is not only healthy but also bursting with flavour.

Fish Tacos

Create a healthy and vibrant meal with grilled or baked white fish like cod or haddock. Top soft corn tortillas with flaked fish, coleslaw, and a drizzle of yogurt-based sauce for a delightful, family-friendly dinner.

Seafood Paella

Dive into a taste of the Mediterranean with a seafood paella. Combining shrimp, mussels, and various fish, this dish is rich in flavour and packed with nutrition.

Baked Trout with Almonds

Season trout fillets with a mixture of crushed almonds, breadcrumbs, and lemon zest. Bake until the fish is tender and the topping is golden brown for a crunchy, nutritious delight.

In Conclusion

Our seaside town of Deal is a gateway to a world of nutritious and delectable seafood options. From the omega-3-rich salmon to the lean protein of cod and haddock, there’s a wide range of choices to please your palate and support your health.

By incorporating seafood into your diet, you can enjoy the many benefits of these ocean treasures, including improved heart health, cognitive function, and a significant boost in essential minerals and vitamins. Remember to choose sustainable options and explore various recipes to add variety to your meals.

Pop in and see Darren and the team to ask about the health benefits from eating seafood and xplore the abundance of seafood available and embark on a journey to better health through the delicious flavours of the sea. Your body and taste buds will thank you for it!

The post The Bounty of the Sea: Exploring the Health Benefits of Eating Seafood appeared first on Jenkins & Son.

Looking to find out Jenkins & Son Fishmongers Christmas opening hours? Then you’re in the right place!

Here are our opening times for Christmas 2023 and New Year 2024.

While the fish markets are closed at the start of 2024, we’re giving the Jenkins & Son staff a short, but very well-deserved break and will be closed from 1st to 4th January, reopening on Friday 5th January 2024.

• 22nd and 23rd December 2023: normal opening hours
• Christmas Eve 2023: Open 6am to 1pm
• 25th, 26th, 27th and 28th December 2023: Closed
• 29th and 30th December 2023: normal opening hours
• 31st December 2023: Open 6am to 1pm
• 1st to 4th January 2024: Closed
• Friday 5th January 2024: normal opening hours

Home Delivery News

Our last date for home deliveries will be Friday 22nd December 2023 after which there will be no home deliveries between Saturday 23rd December 2023 and Wednesday 10th January 2024.

Home deliveries will recommence on Thursday 11th January 2024.

Don’t forget to pre-order your Turkey or Goose for Christmas dinner this year. To find out how, click the words in this sentence to be taken to the relevant blogs.

Darren and the team

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For years, much like our turkeys, we’ve been sourcing succulent goose from Appledore simply because not only are they another successful family-run business in Kent, but they’ve also won a Great Taste award every year for the last 10 years!

The Appledore process

Appledore’s geese graze in open-grass paddocks and enjoy a natural diet of berries eaten from the hedgerows as part of their long and healthy life.

Once reaching full maturity under the highest standards of welfare and care for the environment, they start the process from farm to table.

They are then left for seven days to mature and the geese natural flavours develop as part of the age old tradition of geese production.

All geese are supplied in greaseproof paper and a carry-home box that includes vacuum packed giblets, pop-up timer and a leaflet of recipe ideas with simple cookings tips.

Prices of our goose in Deal, Kent

Our geese range in all manner of different sizes; starting at 4kg and increasing up to a 6kg. The more people you need to feed, the bigger the goose you need!

• 4kg – £90.00
• 5kg – £100.00
• 6kg – £110.00

Being able to give our customers such a variety of sizes means that Appledore’s geese are perfect for all families.

How to pre order your goose

The easiest way to pre order your goose for Christmas is to pop into the shop and speak to Darren. Alternatively, you can give us a call on 01304 364613.

All turkeys must be preordered by Friday 1st December 2023 to be delivered in time for Christmas.

Shop the rest of our range

Our online shop is the place to go to get your fresh fish and game as well as our home cooked meals straight from our kitchen.

Explore our online shop now.

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Christmas is coming soon. Have you decided what you’ll be doing for Christmas dinner?

For years, we’ve been sourcing our delicious bronze free range turkeys from Appledore simply because like us they are another successful family-run business in Kent, but they’ve also won a Great Taste award every year for the last 10 years!

The Appledore process

Appledore’s turkeys live a full and active life, reaching full maturity under the highest standards of welfare and care for the environment before they start the process from farm to table.

Once left for seven days to mature, the turkeys natural flavours develop as part of the age old tradition of turkey production.

All turkeys are supplied in greaseproof paper and a carry-home box that includes rosemary, vacuum packed giblets, pop-up timer and a leaflet of recipe ideas with simple cookings tips.

Prices of our turkeys in Deal, Kent

Our turkeys range in all manner of different sizes; starting at 4kg and increasing to a whopping 10kg. The more people you need to feed, the bigger the turkey you need!

• 4-5kg – £79.99
• 5-6kg – £89.99
• 6-7kg – £99.99
• 7-8kg – £109.99
• 9-10kg – £120.00

Being able to give our customers such a variety of sizes means that Appledore’s turkeys are perfect for all families.

How to pre order yours

The easiest way to pre order your turkey for Christmas is to pop into the shop and speak to Darren. Alternatively, you can give us a call on 01304 364613.

All turkeys must be preordered by Friday 1st December 2023 to be delivered in time for Christmas.

Shop the rest of our range

Our online shop is the place to go to get your fresh fish and game as well as our home cooked meals straight from our kitchen.

Explore our online shop now.

The post Pre-Order Christmas Turkeys [2023] appeared first on Jenkins & Son.

If you’re looking for the freshest fish to cook up this March, you’re in luck! We’ve put together this handy guide that is regularly updated to help you figure out which fish are in season during this month.

So, what’s on the menu?

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Local Skate

Skate is a great choice for those who are looking for a sustainable seafood option and the fact it’s local to us, means it tastes that little bit better.

This fish can be quite strong in flavour, so it’s perfect for those who like their food with a bit of a kick. Skate can be grilled, baked, or even used in soups and stews.

Lemon Sole

Dover Sole’s much more delicate relation, Lemon Sole is best enjoyed as fresh as possible; in some occasions straight off the boat.

When grilled or fried, lemon sole is a delicious source of protein.

Brill

Did you know that the eyes of the brill are on the left side of it’s head!

These unique creatures are known to feed in offshore sand and mud and are commonly found in water depths below 55m. They have been known to feed closer to home however, these sightings are rare.

We catch brill from all around the UK coastline.

Gurnard

This delicious white-fleshed fish mainly lives on the seabed and attract crab, fish and shrimps with their fins.

Gurnards can be quite bony and have a very plain taste however, they make a fantastic addition to that last soup you’ll be cooking ahead of the summer months.

Monkfish

Monkfish are deep water fish found at the bottom of the ocean and mostly harvested in the North Atlantic from coastal Norway to the Mediterranean.

Known for its versatility, monkfish can be baked, broiled, fried, grilled poached or sautéd whilst the fillets are known to take on the flavour of marinades and sauces very well.

Start exploring your March options

These are just a few of the many fish that are in season in the UK throughout March.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, shop online now or pop in and speak to Darren and the team about our amazing selection of sustainable, in-season seafood.

Don’t forget to also follow us on Tiktok and like and comment on our In Season March video.

The post What Fish Are in Season in the UK in March? appeared first on Jenkins & Son.

What is surprising is the incredibly wide range of events, developments, and trends that impact our business day-to-day.

That’s why we thought it would be interesting to put together this quick overview of the current state of the UK fishing industry. 

So, if you’re interested in finding out more about the business of fish, read on!

Brexit’s Effect on Cod Fishing

Cod is a staple of the British diet—fish and chips, anyone?

And yet, cod has never been a year-round UK product. The waters surrounding the UK get too warm during the summer months, forcing fishermen to travel north to colder waters off the coast of Iceland, Norway, and Greenland.

This has been the status quo for years, but Brexit has thrown a wrench into the system.

The main issue is that, post-Brexit, UK fishermen will no longer have automatic access to EU waters. This means that they may need to get special permits to fish in areas where they have traditionally fished—permits that have been slow to materialize. As a result, the cost of cod has soared by 75%.

Luckily, after two years of negotiating, the UK fishing industry has finally seen some progress in the form of a fishing access deal with Norway. This deal should hopefully start to bring cod prices back down to more reasonable levels.

Marine Diesel Prices Are Worrying Fishermen

The tragic war in Ukraine has shocked people around the world. But for UK fishermen, the conflict has had a very real and immediate effect in the form of skyrocketing marine diesel prices.

Fishermen rely heavily on marine diesel to power their boats. And with the conflict in Ukraine causing global supply chain issues, the price of marine diesel has surged by over 100% across the UK.

This has meant that for many fishermen and small to medium fishing companies, it just isn’t worth the cost to go out and fish. The industry is waiting with bated breath to see what the government will do to address these rising prices.

Fishing Quotas Are Always a Controversial Topic

In the UK, as in many other countries, fishing quotas are always a controversial topic. The quotas are designed to prevent overfishing and protect fish stocks for future generations.

However, the way the quotas are calculated and applied can often be unfair to smaller businesses and individual fishermen. This has led to tension and protests in the past, with many people feeling that the quotas are not doing enough to protect the industry as a whole.

The UK government is currently in the process of conducting a full review of the quota system. Let’s hope that they can find a way to create a system that is fair for all involved.

Climate Change Remains Unpredictable

As with most industries, the UK fishing industry is impacted by climate change.

Rising sea temperatures have meant that fish are migrating to different areas than they have in the past. This can make it difficult for fishermen to know where to find the fish they are looking for.

In addition, climate change has led to an increasing number of storms. This can damage boats and equipment, as well as make it dangerous for fishermen to go out and do their job.

British Citizens Are Expanding Their Palates

According to a report from Sainsbury’s, British citizens are eating more fish than ever—but not the fish you’d expect.

The report shows that sales of traditionally less-popular fish species including pollock, sea bass, coley, and tilapia are up by 117%. This massive jump has led experts to predict that by 2030, only 50% of UK fish sales will be cod, haddock, tuna, salmon, or prawns (i.e., the “Big 5”).

This is big news for the UK fishing industry, because it means fishermen have a financial incentive to fish sustainably. Historically, the “Big 5” has been overfished to the point of devastation. But now, with a growing demand for other fish species, there is hope that the industry can be saved.

The UK Fishing Industry Has Always Adapted

The UK fishing industry is facing some big challenges. But it’s important to remember that the industry has always been adaptable. Fishermen have always had to contend with changes in the weather, the climate, and the availability of fish.

The UK fishing industry has a long and proud history—and we’re not going anywhere!

If you have any questions at all, speak to Darren and the team when you next pop in or shop our range of fresh fish.

The post What Is the Current State of the UK Fishing Industry? appeared first on Jenkins & Son.