Monkfish is a good fish to eat. Its meat is sweet, mild, and dense. It has lean protein, vitamins, minerals like vitamin B12, selenium, and potassium. However, monkfish can have high mercury levels. So, pregnant women and children should eat it in moderation. Monkfish is also a source of healthy omega-3s and vitamin B12. Overall, monkfish tastes great and has nutritional benefits. But one should consume sustainably-sourced monkfish in moderation.
What does monkfish taste like?
Monkfish is known as “poor man’s lobster.” Its meaty texture resembles lobster. The mild sweetness adds depth and richness. Monkfish is firmer than cod or pollock. Its hearty flavor allows using it in place of chicken.
The meatiness sets it apart from delicate fish. Marinades and sauces stick to the moist flesh. This gives a lobster-like taste. Monkfish is the healthiest fish, low in mercury and phosphorus.
Its mild sweetness resembles lobster. The lobster-like texture is meatier than other white fish. It lacks a “fishy” taste. It fits well with lemon or something bolder like curry. Its tail meat is popular in French cuisine. Other parts are eaten globally.
Monkfish is understood for having an identical taste and texture to lobster. The meaty flesh is mild and sweet, without being too fishy. This makes it perfect for taking over strong, bold flavors like spices, also as acidic citrus flavors.
Monkfish has a milder flavor than lobster, with a slightly sweet taste. The flesh is more dense and firm, similar to halibut or swordfish. It is often cooked with lemon and butter, which helps enhance its flavors.
Is monkfish expensive?
Monkfish is known as “poor man’s lobster” because its flesh resembles lobster meat, only much more economical. Today, lobster fetches around $30 per pound while monkfish costs about $8 per pound. So monkfish is relatively inexpensive.
Monkfish is easy to prepare as fishmongers sell it as ready-to-cook steaks or fillets. Wild-caught monkfish is sustainable with healthy stocks. The massive heads are often recycled as lobster bait, reducing food waste. The flesh is low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals.
Monkfish is still relatively expensive. You will have to budget for this indulgence. Also, the larger the monkfish, the more expensive it will be. When buying monkfish, ensure it is good quality, properly cared for, and free of blemishes.
Why is monkfish a delicacy?
Monkfish is a bottom-dwelling fish found in the Atlantic Ocean. It can grow up to three feet and is prized for its sweet, nutty flavor. Monkfish is a sought-after delicacy by chefs. Its average price is around $8 per pound. Cleaned and cooked, monkfish has wonderful flavor and texture.
Monkfish liver is prized in Japan as ankimo. Originally fishermen kept it since they couldn’t discard part of their catch. But monkfish liver has become controversial due to overfishing.
Monkfish get their name from their cowl-like head. Fishermen used to give them to monks. Monkfish is enjoyed in Europe and Japan. Its tail meat, cheeks and liver can be consumed.
Monkfish is versatile and can be cooked many ways like grilling and roasting. It has no fishy taste and soaks up flavors well. Monkfish populations are in severe decline due to human activity.