At Paramount Caviar, we’re committed to honest representation, so every image is captured naturally without filters, major digital enhancement, or artificial intelligence - because our products speak for themselves.
Bowfin Roe
- Unit price
- /per
Caviar Serving Sizes
Caviar servings directly relate to the number of people that the caviar can satisfy.
If you are concerned about having too much caviar and want to prevent spoilage, you can split your order by ordering multiples of a smaller unit of caviar. This allows you to open one unit at a time and then open the remaining caviar units as needed.
| Serving Size | Serving Size Description |
| 1 oz (1-2 servings) | A perfect amount for one person; Two people would have 'a taste' each. |
| 2 oz (2-3 servings) | A perfect amount for two people; Three to four people would be able to have 'a taste' each. |
| 4.4 oz (4-5 servings) | Perfect for a group of 4 - 5 to have just the right amount of caviar; This serving size could work for slightly larger groups but only for 'a taste' each. |
| 8.8 oz (7-9 servings) | Perfect for a larger group of 7 - 9 people to have just the right amount of caviar. Can be extended to a larger group for 'just a taste' each. |
| 17.6 oz (13-17 servings) | Great for large party sizes or an indulgent amount for smaller groups |
| 2.2 lbs (32-34 servings) | Perfect for very large groups. |
Free overnight shipping on orders $500 and over.
Our caviar is freshly packed per order, unpasteurized, and contains only 3.5% salt so you enjoy the full flavor of the caviar.
Schedule your delivery in advance to ensure it arrives exactly when needed. Your order will be freshly packed on the day we ship it to you.
Description
Please call for availability at 718-786-7747
American Bowfin Roe, also known as "Choupique" roe, is a staple of Cajun cuisine in Louisiana. With small to medium sized jet black pearls, it features a smooth and creamy flavor profile with buttery undertones and a slight tang. This wild-caught roe from Louisiana, USA, adds a touch of Southern sophistication to your culinary endeavors.
| Paramount Caviar SKU | 213 |
| Status | Wild |
| Common Name | Bowfin |
| Latin Name | Amia calva |
| Color | Shiny black |
| Roe Size | Small |
| Flavor Profile | Buttery |
| Place of Origin | United States |
Adding product to your cart
At Paramount Caviar, we’re committed to honest representation, so every image is captured naturally without filters, major digital enhancement, or artificial intelligence - because our products speak for themselves.
-
The American Bowfin is a living fossil, virtually unchanged for over 180 million years, earning nicknames like “mudfish,” “cypress trout,” and the Cajun “choupique.” This ancient freshwater species (Amia calva) inhabits slow-moving waters, swamps, and backwaters across the southeastern United States, from Louisiana to the Great Lakes. Its unique physiology allows it to breathe through both gills and a specialized gas bladder, thriving in low-oxygen environments where other fish cannot survive. The bowfin’s elongated body, sharp teeth, and predatory nature make it a formidable hunter, reaching over two feet in length and 20 pounds in weight. Its wild-caught roe is celebrated in Cajun cuisine and serves as an approachable, flavorful alternative to traditional sturgeon caviar.
-
Appearance of Bowfin Roe
Bowfin roe features small pearls with a uniform, glossy appearance and deep black coloration reminiscent of traditional sturgeon caviar. Some pearls may display subtle reddish or chestnut highlights, adding natural depth and visual interest. Each grain maintains excellent separation and consistent sizing, creating a clean, classic caviar presentation. The firm, glistening pearls provide an elegant, sophisticated aesthetic. This striking appearance makes bowfin roe a visually impressive and approachable American alternative to imported varieties.
Texture of Bowfin Roe
Bowfin roe offers a firm, satisfying texture with small pearls that provide a pleasant bite and maintain excellent structural integrity. Each grain delivers a gentle popping sensation, releasing rich flavor immediately across the palate. The mouthfeel balances firmness with a smooth, slightly buttery finish that lingers pleasantly. The consistent texture reflects careful handling and the bowfin’s wild American origins. This roe provides an approachable caviar experience that delights both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.
Flavor Profile of Bowfin Roe
Bowfin roe offers a distinctive flavor that begins with smooth, creamy notes and unfolds into earthy, herbal undertones with a gentle brininess. Subtle buttery richness reflects Louisiana’s culinary heritage, complemented by hints of spice and mild smokiness. The robust, full-bodied taste provides more intensity than delicate roes while remaining approachable for a wide range of palates. Each bite finishes with clean, lasting brine and gentle tang, inviting continued tasting. This complex, flavorful profile highlights the bowfin’s wild American origins and makes it an accessible, satisfying alternative to traditional caviar.
-
How to Serve Your Caviar and Roe
Step 1: Proper Storage & Temperature
Keep your caviar and roe refrigerated at 28°F to 32°F until you're ready to serve. Remove from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to acclimate to the ambient temperature. Caviar and roe should be served chilled but not ice-cold, as extreme cold mutes the delicate flavors.
Step 2: Choose the Right Serving Vessel
Use non-metallic serving spoons to prevent a metallic taste from clashing with your caviar and roe. Mother-of-pearl, bone, or plastic spoons are the best options. Serve in small glass or ceramic bowls nested over crushed ice to maintain a safe temperature. If you don't have serving bowls, you may place the opened caviar tins in a bowl of crushed ice. The tins have food-safe varnish that prevents a metallic taste.
Step 3: Portion Appropriately
Plan for ½-1 ounce per person as an appetizer with other foods so all guests can have "a taste." For a full caviar portion, serve 1 ounce per person. Use a gentle touch when portioning and never press or crush the delicate pearls.
Step 4: Select Complementary Accompaniments
Serve with items that complement without overpowering the mild, nuanced flavors. We recommend:
- Blinis or toast points (unsalted)
- Crème fraîche, light sour cream, or clotted cream
- Champagne, vodka, or crisp white wines
Pro-Tip: Skip the chives, red onions, chopped eggs, and other accompaniments in a traditional caviar service. These traditional accompaniments were introduced when preservation methods required heavily salting the caviar. With today's advanced refrigeration methods, caviar does not need to be over-salted and you can enjoy the caviar's true flavor profiles.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Immediately
Present your caviar and roe just before serving. Invite your guests to take small portions and savor slowly on the palate to appreciate complex flavors and texture. Enjoy within 2 hours of opening and never leave at room temperature for extended periods.
Pairings
Bowfin roe is celebrated in authentic Cajun cuisine, paired with Southern spirits and regional accompaniments that reflect Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage. Traditional “Choupique” preparations feature this wild roe alongside cornbread, crackers, and classic Creole touches that honor Mississippi River region customs. Simple, thoughtful presentations allow the roe’s earthy flavor to shine, while domestic spirits like bourbon complement its natural character. Classic Southern service emphasizes the bowfin’s historic role in regional cuisine, preserving generations-old techniques and authentic American traditions. This approachable approach highlights both the roe’s versatility and its cultural significance.
-
Preparation
Our caviar is lightly salted (malossol) with 3.5% salt. Packaging
Packed in vacuum-sealed, metal tins that are protected inside with a special food-grade varnish. Shipping and Delivery
Nationwide Shipping: Paramount Caviar ships all caviar across the United States with overnight shipping services and enough ice and materials to withstand up to 2 days of shipping outside of refrigeration.
Hand Delivery: Hand delivery is available to customers residing in Manhattan. All caviar and perishables are delivered with ice.
In-Store Pickup: In-Store pickup is available and all caviar is prepared and ready for pickup with ice.
Shelf Life (Refrigerated)
Our caviar lasts for up 3 weeks in a standard household refrigerator with its original, unopened seal. Once the caviar tin has been opened, all remaining caviar should be consumed within 3 days.
Do not freeze your caviar. Freezing your caviar will cause the caviar to lose its integrity.
Storage Type Keep refrigerated at 33-40°F (0-4°C). We recommend storing the caviar in the back of the refrigerator as it will be less susceptible to temperature fluctuations. Allergy and Cautionary Information
Contains fish (sturgeon). Consuming raw or unpasteurized seafood may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
The American Bowfin is a living fossil, virtually unchanged for over 180 million years, earning nicknames like “mudfish,” “cypress trout,” and the Cajun “choupique.” This ancient freshwater species (Amia calva) inhabits slow-moving waters, swamps, and backwaters across the southeastern United States, from Louisiana to the Great Lakes. Its unique physiology allows it to breathe through both gills and a specialized gas bladder, thriving in low-oxygen environments where other fish cannot survive. The bowfin’s elongated body, sharp teeth, and predatory nature make it a formidable hunter, reaching over two feet in length and 20 pounds in weight. Its wild-caught roe is celebrated in Cajun cuisine and serves as an approachable, flavorful alternative to traditional sturgeon caviar.
Appearance of Bowfin Roe
Bowfin roe features small pearls with a uniform, glossy appearance and deep black coloration reminiscent of traditional sturgeon caviar. Some pearls may display subtle reddish or chestnut highlights, adding natural depth and visual interest. Each grain maintains excellent separation and consistent sizing, creating a clean, classic caviar presentation. The firm, glistening pearls provide an elegant, sophisticated aesthetic. This striking appearance makes bowfin roe a visually impressive and approachable American alternative to imported varieties.
Texture of Bowfin Roe
Bowfin roe offers a firm, satisfying texture with small pearls that provide a pleasant bite and maintain excellent structural integrity. Each grain delivers a gentle popping sensation, releasing rich flavor immediately across the palate. The mouthfeel balances firmness with a smooth, slightly buttery finish that lingers pleasantly. The consistent texture reflects careful handling and the bowfin’s wild American origins. This roe provides an approachable caviar experience that delights both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.
Flavor Profile of Bowfin Roe
Bowfin roe offers a distinctive flavor that begins with smooth, creamy notes and unfolds into earthy, herbal undertones with a gentle brininess. Subtle buttery richness reflects Louisiana’s culinary heritage, complemented by hints of spice and mild smokiness. The robust, full-bodied taste provides more intensity than delicate roes while remaining approachable for a wide range of palates. Each bite finishes with clean, lasting brine and gentle tang, inviting continued tasting. This complex, flavorful profile highlights the bowfin’s wild American origins and makes it an accessible, satisfying alternative to traditional caviar.
How to Serve Your Caviar and Roe
Step 1: Proper Storage & Temperature
Keep your caviar and roe refrigerated at 28°F to 32°F until you're ready to serve. Remove from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to acclimate to the ambient temperature. Caviar and roe should be served chilled but not ice-cold, as extreme cold mutes the delicate flavors.
Step 2: Choose the Right Serving Vessel
Use non-metallic serving spoons to prevent a metallic taste from clashing with your caviar and roe. Mother-of-pearl, bone, or plastic spoons are the best options. Serve in small glass or ceramic bowls nested over crushed ice to maintain a safe temperature. If you don't have serving bowls, you may place the opened caviar tins in a bowl of crushed ice. The tins have food-safe varnish that prevents a metallic taste.
Step 3: Portion Appropriately
Plan for ½-1 ounce per person as an appetizer with other foods so all guests can have "a taste." For a full caviar portion, serve 1 ounce per person. Use a gentle touch when portioning and never press or crush the delicate pearls.
Step 4: Select Complementary Accompaniments
Serve with items that complement without overpowering the mild, nuanced flavors. We recommend:
- Blinis or toast points (unsalted)
- Crème fraîche, light sour cream, or clotted cream
- Champagne, vodka, or crisp white wines
Pro-Tip: Skip the chives, red onions, chopped eggs, and other accompaniments in a traditional caviar service. These traditional accompaniments were introduced when preservation methods required heavily salting the caviar. With today's advanced refrigeration methods, caviar does not need to be over-salted and you can enjoy the caviar's true flavor profiles.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Immediately
Present your caviar and roe just before serving. Invite your guests to take small portions and savor slowly on the palate to appreciate complex flavors and texture. Enjoy within 2 hours of opening and never leave at room temperature for extended periods.
Pairings
Bowfin roe is celebrated in authentic Cajun cuisine, paired with Southern spirits and regional accompaniments that reflect Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage. Traditional “Choupique” preparations feature this wild roe alongside cornbread, crackers, and classic Creole touches that honor Mississippi River region customs. Simple, thoughtful presentations allow the roe’s earthy flavor to shine, while domestic spirits like bourbon complement its natural character. Classic Southern service emphasizes the bowfin’s historic role in regional cuisine, preserving generations-old techniques and authentic American traditions. This approachable approach highlights both the roe’s versatility and its cultural significance.
|
Preparation |
Our caviar is lightly salted (malossol) with 3.5% salt. |
|
Packaging |
Packed in vacuum-sealed, metal tins that are protected inside with a special food-grade varnish. |
|
Shipping and Delivery |
Nationwide Shipping: Paramount Caviar ships all caviar across the United States with overnight shipping services and enough ice and materials to withstand up to 2 days of shipping outside of refrigeration. Hand Delivery: Hand delivery is available to customers residing in Manhattan. All caviar and perishables are delivered with ice. In-Store Pickup: In-Store pickup is available and all caviar is prepared and ready for pickup with ice. |
|
Shelf Life (Refrigerated) |
Our caviar lasts for up 3 weeks in a standard household refrigerator with its original, unopened seal. Once the caviar tin has been opened, all remaining caviar should be consumed within 3 days. Do not freeze your caviar. Freezing your caviar will cause the caviar to lose its integrity. |
| Storage Type | Keep refrigerated at 33-40°F (0-4°C). We recommend storing the caviar in the back of the refrigerator as it will be less susceptible to temperature fluctuations. |
|
Allergy and Cautionary Information |
Contains fish (sturgeon). Consuming raw or unpasteurized seafood may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions. |
Customer Reviews About Bowfin Roe
The Art of Tasting Caviar
Observe
Observe the caviar's appearance before tasting. Quality caviar displays uniform, glossy pearls with consistent size and color. The grains should appear clearly defined and intact, not broken nor overly soft.
Smell
Experience the aroma of the caviar with a gentle inhale. Fresh caviar should have a clean, oceanic scent that resembles a fresh sea breeze.
Texture
Place a small amount of caviar on your tongue and gently press against the roof of your mouth. Quality caviar should have a slight "pop" when enjoyed. The texture should be firm yet yielding, never overly soft or hard. Each pearl should burst individually, creating a pleasant textural contrast.
First Taste
Focus on the immediate flavor that hits your palate when the pearls burst. This first impression often includes the primary characteristics whether it's briny, creamy, or mineral-forward. Quality caviar should taste clean and fresh, never overly salty or harsh.
Savor
Allow the caviar to coat your palate and focus on the flavor progression as it develops. Secondary notes may emerge such as buttery, nutty, subtle mineral notes, or even hints of sweetness. Quality caviar finishes clean without lingering saltiness or off-flavors. Take your time as the full flavor profile continues to evolve over several seconds.