Bluefish is remarkably delicious and versatile. It is wonderful on the grill, its fatty richness complemented by the flavor of wood smoke. That richness ("oiliness" to the minds of some) causes many people to shun bluefish and other similar ocean brethren. All I can say is, oh well, more for me. Here orange zest provides an acidic tang that helps to balance the flavors, and the slow, low heat of the smoldering wood cooks the fish without drying it out.
Ingredients
Serves 4
Preparation
Remove the fish from the brine and pat it dry. Brush it with a mixture of the olive oil and orange zest. Place the fish, skin side down, on the grill away from the coals of a small fire. Add a few chunks of wood to the coals and cover the grill. For bluefish, I prefer a fruit or nut wood such as peach, pecan, apple, or cherry. Orange wood is also a fun choice. Close the air intake to just a sliver and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet and intensity of the fire. When the fish is cooked, it will have a beautiful rusty hue and the meat will flake under gentle pressure. Gently remove the filets to a platter and serve immediately. I like to remove the skin of bluefish and the underlying darkly colored bloodline just beneath it, as these can have strong flavors that some guests do not appreciate. It also helps to remove some of the toxins that are a concern with bluefish, as they tend to aggregate just under the skin.
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Reviews (5)
Back to TopBlue fish is highly perishable and is not available in many markets. It is a strong tasting fish (somewhat fishy) but really good if you like fish. The larger the fish, the stronger the flavor so size is important. It is our favorite fish and we eat it regularly in the summer when we can get it fresh in a local ethnic market (or when my husband or his friends go fishing).
Anonymous
Baltimore, Maryland
6/6/2013
Having NEVER seen bluefish in any market, can I ask where it can be found?
sedrowilly
6/5/2013
Just click on the words "Fish Brine" and you will have the recipe.
pschasey
6/3/2013
To A Cook - if you click on the word Fish Brine, it will give you the recipe for that. Enjoy!
Anonymous
6/3/2013
It would be helpful to know the ingredients of the fish brine. Also the word grilled on the title would be more informative
Anonymous
6/3/2013
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If it lives in the water, it belongs on the fire.
