What is this food?
Crevalle (deep-bellied) dried fish. It’s a salty, dried fish that’s mainly used as a protein viand.
Why it matters to health
This dried fish is a good protein source, which helps keep you full and supports muscle repair after meals. However, it’s also high in sodium (about 6,773 mg per 100 g) and has fat (12.6 g, with 3.36 g saturated fat). If eaten often or in big portions, the sodium can add up and may affect blood pressure, and the saturated fat can crowd out healthier fats in your overall diet. The good part: since it has no carbs and no fiber, pairing it with rice/vegetables and balancing your meals helps you get a more complete plate.
Healthier tips
- Portion first: use a smaller serving (about 1–2 tablespoons of shredded dried fish or a small piece) and add more fresh/steamed vegetables to your plate.
- Soak to reduce salt: soak in water for 15–30 minutes, then drain (and you can rinse) before cooking.
- Balance your plate: pair with 1–2 cups of vegetables and a reasonable serving of rice or root crops.
- Choose frequency: enjoy it as a viand sometimes, not every day—especially if you also eat other salty foods (fish sauce, bagoong, instant noodles).
- Watch snacks: if you have dried fish at lunch or dinner, keep snacks lighter (fruit, yogurt, or nuts in small portions) to avoid piling on salt and calories.
Common Filipino dishes
Tuyo (dried sardines) with rice, Daing na bangus, Dried fish sinigang, Ginataang pinatuyong isda, Tinapa (smoked fish), Burong isda