Seafood

Discover the Best Seafood in Denmark: From Rema1000 Classics to Pandasia’s Exotic Finds

Why Danish seafood shopping deserves a closer look

If you live in Denmark or are planning to cook like a local, seafood plays a starring role. From the simple pleasure of smoked trout on rye to the umami-rich world of sushi-grade ingredients, Danish supermarkets and specialty stores serve a diverse mix of both traditional and international seafood. In this article I’ll walk you through standout products you can find at familiar stores such as Rema1000 and Pandasia, plus other Danish retailers worth checking out. Think of this as your map to tasty, responsible, and value-packed seafood shopping in Denmark.

Rema1000: Everyday seafood staples with great convenience

Rema1000 has a reputation for solid everyday groceries and their seafood selection reflects that—practical, tasty, and priced for regular shopping trips. If you want straightforward Danish flavors without the fuss, Rema1000 is often the go-to. They stock both fresh and cured items that suit quick dinners, smørrebrød, and family meals.

Smoked Danish Trout

Smoked Danish trout is a classic—delicate, slightly sweet, and perfect for breakfast or light dinners. It’s one of those items that makes you feel like you’ve treated yourself without breaking the bank. Layer it on rye, add a squeeze of lemon, and you’re there. When shopping, look for a natural smoke aroma and a glossy but not oily surface.

Marinated Herring

Marinated herring comes in many flavors and is central to Danish food culture. Rema1000 often has several varieties—creamy dill, mustard, or spiced—ideal for a festive table or a casual sandwich. Herring is affordable, protein-rich, and stores well in the fridge, making it a practical choice for both planned and last-minute meals.

Marinated Salmon

Marinated salmon at Rema1000 gives you salmon flavor without the need to cook—perfect for salads, open-faced sandwiches, or a quick appetizer. Look for clear labeling about origin and storage to make sure you’re buying a fresh-tasting product that fits your sustainability preferences.

Mackerel Fillets in Tomato

Mackerel in tomato sauce is one of those pantry heroes. It’s ready-to-eat, packed with omega-3s, and gives a satisfying, savory punch. Use it in pastas, on toast, or tossed into a hearty stew. The tomato sauce helps mask mild variability in fish texture, so it’s a forgiving, budget-friendly option.

Smoked Cod Liver

Smoked cod liver might sound niche, but it’s a rich, flavorful spread that adds decadence to small plates. A little goes a long way—try it on crispbread with a thin sliver of red onion or mixed into a creamy potato salad for a Nordic twist.

Fish Cakes

Fish cakes are a family-friendly staple—quick to heat, easy to pair with potatoes or salad, and usually made from locally popular white fish. They’re a smart shortcut for busy nights and an approachable way to introduce kids to seafood flavors.

Pandasia: Your gateway to Asian seafood and sushi ingredients

Pandasia occupies a different but complementary niche: it’s a treasure chest of Asian seafood ingredients and snacks that are perfect for adventurous cooks. If you’re making sushi, whipping up a spicy stir-fry, or exploring new shellfish varieties, Pandasia’s range makes experimentation easy and fun.

Prepared Shredded Squid Spicy Jane Jane

This spicy shredded squid is a popular snack in Southeast Asia and offers an addictive mix of chewiness and heat. It’s an excellent appetizer with beer or a bold topping for noodle bowls. The texture is unique—think squid meets jerky—and it adds an instant flavor lift.

Salted Dried Shorthead Anchovy

Dried anchovies are packing powerhouses for broths and stocks. A handful simmered into a pot can add deep umami to soups, stews, and sauces. They also work as a crunchy, salty garnish when lightly toasted. Keep some in your pantry as a secret shortcut to richer flavors.

Seacon Vannamei Whiteleg Shrimp (Colossal)

Vannamei whiteleg shrimp are widely used for their consistent size and sweet flavor. Pandasia’s frozen colossal shrimp are great for grilling, frying, or adding to paella-style dishes. Frozen doesn’t mean lesser—flash-frozen shrimp can be just as tasty as fresh when thawed and cooked properly.

Bio Asia Sushi Nori Seaweed

Good nori makes a world of difference in homemade sushi. Pandasia stocks sushi-grade seaweed that’s crisp, lightly salty, and perfect for rolling. If you’ve been intimidated by making sushi, start with quality nori and simple fillings like avocado and smoked salmon.

Planet Pride Scallops

Scallops deliver luxury without a huge price tag if you shop smart. Pandasia’s frozen scallops are an affordable way to add restaurant-style flair to dinner—sear them quickly in a hot pan for a caramelized crust and sweet, tender center.

Tobiko Flyvefiskerogn (Flying Fish Roe)

Tobiko brings pop and color to sushi and seafood salads. It’s salty, mildly sweet, and adds a crunchy contrast to soft textures. If you want to recreate sushi-bar vibes at home, a small jar of tobiko goes a long way.

Red Tilapia and Blueleg Crab

Red tilapia fillets and blueleg crab are excellent for family meals and party platters. Tilapia is versatile and mild—ideal for curry, baking, or frying. Blueleg crab makes for a showy main when steamed and served with dipping sauces, or you can use the meat in salads and cakes for a deluxe twist.

Other Danish stores to expand your seafood options

Beyond Rema1000 and Pandasia, Denmark is full of stores that suit different budgets and tastes. Here are a few to consider when you want variety or specific items:

Netto and Lidl

Netto and Lidl are excellent for everyday bargains and seasonal finds. They often stock frozen seafood, canned goods, and occasional specials like prawns or smoked fish. If you’re hunting a great price without complex needs, these discount chains are worth checking regularly.

Føtex, Bilka, and Meny

For a wider selection of fresh and specialty seafood, large supermarkets like Føtex, Bilka, and Meny shine. You’ll find sushi-grade salmon, fresh shellfish, and premium smoked products. These stores often carry certified sustainable options and a broader range of international ingredients.

Irma and specialty fishmongers

Irma and independent fishmongers are ideal if you prioritize quality and provenance. While pricier, they tend to offer expert trimming, filleting, and tailored advice—helpful if you’re planning a special meal or want chef-quality cuts.

How to choose sustainable seafood in Denmark

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword—it’s how we make sure the ocean stays productive for future generations. When shopping, look for certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) for wild-caught fish or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) for farmed species. Labels, country-of-origin info, and transparent sourcing statements matter. If a product doesn’t say where it comes from, ask or choose an alternative you trust.

Seasonal and local choices

Buying seasonal and local seafood reduces carbon footprints and supports local fisheries. In Denmark, seasonality affects availability for items like herring and certain shellfish. Ask your fishmonger or check store signage to find peak-season catches—freshness and flavor are better, and prices are often friendlier.

Fresh vs. frozen: which to pick?

Frozen seafood gets a bad rap, but it can be just as nutritious as fresh—sometimes even better. Modern flash-freezing preserves texture and nutrients immediately after catch. Fresh is great for immediate use and certain delicate dishes, but don’t shy away from frozen when quality and convenience matter. Frozen is particularly smart for shellfish, shrimp, and portion-controlled fillets.

Thawing and storing tips

Thaw frozen seafood in the fridge overnight for best texture. For quick thawing, use a sealed bag submerged in cold water—change water every 20–30 minutes until thawed. Store fresh fish at the coldest part of your fridge and use within two days. If you can, keep seafood on a bed of ice in a shallow dish to maintain optimal temperature.

Cooking ideas for the best results

Seafood is forgiving when kept simple—good ingredients plus straightforward techniques usually win. Want a few quick ideas? Try pan-seared scallops with lemon butter, grilled mackerel with a tomato salsa, or a simple sushi roll using Pandasia’s nori and tobiko. For smoked fish, keep it cold and pair with dense bread, pickled vegetables, and a creamy element.

Pairing and seasoning tips

Use citrus and herbs to brighten richer fish, and bold spices or umami boosters (soy, miso, anchovy) for mild white fish. When grilling, use a hot grill and oil to prevent sticking. For baked dishes, protect delicate fillets with a foil tent to keep them moist. Remember: less is often more—let the fish be the star, not an overpowering sauce.

Price and value: getting the most from your seafood spend

Seafood prices vary widely, but you can maximize value by mixing premium treats with budget-friendly staples. Buy smoked trout or scallops for special occasions, and rely on herring, mackerel, and frozen shrimp for everyday meals. Watch for weekly specials, bulk discounts, and seasonal surpluses—these are great opportunities to freeze portions for later.

Buying tips to save money

Plan meals around what’s on offer in your local store and buy frozen packs rather than single fresh fillets when possible. When a shop like Pandasia offers imported specialty items on discount, snap them up for experimentation; while Rema1000’s steady staples provide a reliable base for weekly dinners. Combining both types of stores gives you flexibility and savings.

Final thoughts: balancing taste, convenience, and responsibility

Shopping for seafood in Denmark is about more than grabbing a fillet—it's a chance to explore tradition, global flavors, and sustainable choices. Rema1000 delivers everyday convenience and beloved classics, while Pandasia opens the door to sushi-grade and exotic ingredients. Mix in offerings from Netto, Føtex, Meny, and local fishmongers to create a personal seafood pantry that’s delicious, affordable, and mindful. With a little planning and curiosity, every meal can feel like a small celebration of the sea.

Conclusion

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning a weekend feast, Denmark has seafood options for every appetite and skill level. From the comforting smoked fish and marinated herring at mainstream supermarkets to the specialty shrimp, tobiko, and nori at Asian stores, you can build a varied and sustainable seafood routine. Try new things, trust labels, and don’t be afraid to ask questions—good seafood shopping pays off on your plate and in your wallet.