(WSIL) -- The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is offering free Asian carp meals at nine locations throughout the state this Saturday, October 17.
The statewide event that will showcase the versatility and nutritional benefits of the invasive fish, according to the IDNR.
In Jackson County, Chefs from Cristaudo’s Café, Bakery and Catering will prepare and serve a Jamaican Escovitch fish taco filling for park visitors to pick up at Giant City State Park Visitors Center (235 Giant City Rd., Makanda) from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
In Carterville, Chefs from Walker’s Bluff Vineyard (326 Vermont Rd.) will prepare and serve the Asian carp in the winery’s tasting room from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
"Removing Asian carp from our waterways has long been one of our best and most well-known tactics when it comes to keeping these invasive fish from the Great Lakes,� said Colleen Callahan, director, IDNR. “But what is lesser known when it comes to Asian carp is the overwhelming benefit as both a food source and potential menu item for restaurants."
"To showcase its nutritional benefits and adaptability as protein source, we’re partnering with businesses to provide free meals across the state."
Other locations include:
- Chicago, Logan Square: Unity Park, 2636 N. Kimball Ave. from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Asian carp tacos will be prepared by El Rancherito Restaurant
- Chicago, Lincoln Park: Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet Shop, 2070 N. Clybourn Ave. from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Asian carp burgers will be prepared and served by owner Dirk Fucik.
- Chicago, Pilsen: Open Books Chicago, 905 W 19th St. from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Asian carp tacos will be prepared by Mole Village Mexican Restaurant.
- Springfield: Carter’s Fish Market, 1900 S. Grand Ave. East from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Owner Clint Carter will prepare and serve Louisiana style Asian carp hush puppies drizzled with a Remoulade sauce. Beginning Oct. 21, customers can enjoy a fish taco special at The Barn located at 1501 Wabash Ave.
- Quincy: Red Light Bar & Grill, 428 Maine St. from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Red Light Bar & Grill will prepare and serve Asian carp sliders; the sliders also will serve as a daily special for the week following the Asian carp cookout.
Students at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Southern Illinois University in Carbondale will also have the opportunity to taste Asian carp creations in select dining halls.
