A hot and spicy dish from the end of the world

At the end of the world, at the bottom of South America, just short of Antarctica, is Isla Navarino. This remote island looks south to Cape Horn and its fearsome sea. To the north it looks over the Beagle Channel, named after the boat Charles Darwin sailed on the voyage that led to the theory of evolution.

Navarino is now a paradise for hikers and fly-fishers. Pristine rivers can still be found if you hike for a few days and spend a week in nature. My wife and I recently spent five days in the raw beauty of its mountains and forests.

When we headed back to Puerto Williams, the only village on the island, we were happy about the experience, but hungry. Our host, Patty Ureta, prepared the famous king crab soup of Fireland for us.

Most people know the healthy advantages of fish: it is a high-quality protein, full of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. It helps lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of a heart attack.

Different fish carry different nutrients and qualities, hence variation is important. While most types of fish can be eaten up to four times per week, some precautions are imperative.

Mercury (methylmercury), which is contained in some fish, could harm the nervous system as well as slow down cell development in fetuses. Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety suggests a moderate consumption of a variety of fish, and warns that predatory fish species such as shark, swordfish, marlin and tuna can have high mercury levels.

Whether fish caught in Hong Kong waters have a higher level of mercury than their counterparts around the world is open to debate. However, the risk exists worldwide, and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should be vigilant. Those who love raw fish also need to be careful.