It’s been said there are as many ways to cook a fish as there are species. With hundreds of different kinds of fish swimming around, that’s doubtful. One thing is clear, there are a lot of different ways to prepare a fish. Poaching, steaming, grilling, barbecuing, baking, braising, frying, microwaving … you name it, they’re all pretty easy to do.
Trouble is, most people cook and prepare fish filets in ways that all but eliminate the taste of the creature they’re about to eat. It’s a shame. Most species are tasty and healthy things to eat, and their taste is what makes them unique. You know, like picking your favorite steak or hamburger.
But fish, on the other hand, aren’t usually raised in captivity. Sure, fish farms are becoming more and more popular as the masses continuing to hurt the populations of many wild species. Most are caught from the ocean, rivers or lakes then taken home prepared and cooked – often on the same day. Few things beat a fresh caught fish.
The health aspect is what makes fish so popular with most folks. Health departments and websites often point to the fact that diets high in fish have been linked to lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation, relieving arthritis pain and reducing the risk of things like strokes and heart attacks.
Grilling, baking or frying are the most popular and easiest ways to cook a fish filet, but too many people add other flavors and some even cover their dish with some kind of sauce. That’s where some people lose me. The taste of a medium rare hunk of yellowfin tuna is awfully hard to beat.
Frying has been hugely popular throughout time and it can be wonderful if the fish isn’t battered too much.
Baking is probably the healthiest way to cook a filet and Better Homes and Gardens says most fish can be thoroughly baked in about 10 minutes. Add a sprinkle of salt and squeeze or lemon and you’d have the king of the plate.
These days are the best to give cooking fish a serious try, as all of our seasonal species have made their way into area waters.
Remember, if you or a friend haven’t caught the fish and you purchase some at a local market, one of the most important things to look at is the eyes. If they’re foggy, pick out something else.
To read more of my work, go to leetolliveroutdoors.com
