Monkfish is a delicious fish loved by many seafood connoisseurs. It is also referred to as “alligatorfish”, “anglerfish”, or “goose fish”. It was once difficult to find monkfish in grocery stores, but nowadays it is becoming easier to find fresh monkfish in many seafood markets.
Monkfish is both tasty and nutritious. It is low in fat and carbs, but rich in protein. It is also a good source of essential minerals such as calcium, selenium, and phosphorus. Monkfish is an excellent source of heart-healthy Omega-3 fats, which help promote cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
Grilling monkfish is a great way to bring out its natural flavor and texture. Grilling also helps to preserve the delicate flavors of the fish, as well as the essential fatty acids and vitamins it contains. Plus, the unique texture of monkfish is really enhanced when cooked over a live fire.
What You Need
To make a delicious grilled monkfish, you will need the following ingredients and tools:
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Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb monkfish fillets
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
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Common Seasonings and Spices:
- Lemon juice
- Garlic powder
- Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, rosemary, and oregano
- Caper Berries (optional)
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Equipment:
- A charcoal, gas, or electric grill
- Long-handled tongs
- Metal skewer or kabob stick
Step-By-Step Guide
Follow these steps for perfectly grilled monkfish:
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Step 1: Preparing the Monkfish
- Rinse the monkfish fillets under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to remove any skin or bones that may be present.
- Place the monkfish on a cutting board and season with salt, pepper, and other seasonings of your choice. Let the fish marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the grill.
- Thread the monkfish onto the skewer or kabob stick, leaving some space between the pieces.
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Step 2: Marinating the Monkfish
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and any herbs or capers you are using. Pour the marinade over the monkfish and allow it to sit for 15-30 minutes.
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Step 3: Preheating the Grill
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing red hot.
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Step 4: Grilling the Monkfish
- Place the skewer of monkfish onto the hot grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the fish is lightly browned and cooked through.
- Use the tongs to flip the monkfish as needed to ensure even cooking. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become tough and dry.
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Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Once the fish is cooked through, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a plate. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
Follow these tips and tricks for the best grilled monkfish:
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Grill Setup:
- For best results, use a charcoal or gas grill. If using a charcoal grill, leave one side of the grill cooler than the other. This will give you a “hot side” and a “cool side”, which you can use to control the heat and prevent the monkfish from burning.
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Grilling Time:
- Grilling time will depend on the thickness of the monkfish fillets. Thin fillets can cook in as little as 2 minutes per side, while thicker fillets may need up to 5 minutes per side.
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Serving Suggestions:
- Grilled monkfish is delicious served with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad. It also pairs nicely with a chilled glass of white wine or a chilled beer.
Conclusion
Grilled monkfish is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy this unique seafood. With the simple instructions above, you can easily unlock the secret of perfectly grilled monkfish. So fire up the grill and enjoy!