Deep Dive into Seafood: What Does Monkfish Taste Like?

Ever wondered about the taste of this weird-looking flat-bodied fish?

It’s widely available and comes at a reasonable price, so it’s relatively easy to get your hands on them.

Not only its flesh but the liver and other parts are also a delicacy in some countries.

But what does monkfish taste like? Does it have a flavor similar to other seafood? Are there any health benefits associated with this fish?

Don’t worry, we’ll tell you all about it.

So if you’re yet to try this fish, this article can be helpful for you.

What is Monkfish?

Monkfish is a creepy-looking sea creature with a flat body, wide mouth, and many teeth.

They’re primarily found in the Atlantic Ocean and live in deep waters.

They feed on smaller fish or gobble up anything that swims nearby.

Although not a pleasant-looking fish, people widely enjoy its meat.

As such, in French cuisine, its tail is often used.

The liver is considered a delicacy in Japan, and some Spanish dishes use its cheeks and liver.

Unlike other fishes, monkfish use their fins to walk on water rather than swim.

Also, this fish is easy to prepare as it doesn’t have small bones.

The tail meat is most favored for its tenderness among its body parts.

The meat of a monkfish is lean and firm, and its color can be white or slightly pink.

Besides, its cheeks are also eaten. Its meat is often sold as fillets or steaks.

What Does Monkfish Taste Like?

If you judge by appearance, this fish may not win your heart.

But putting aside how it looks, monkfish is one of the tastiest seafood.

You’ve probably seen this item on a menu at the restaurant.

If you haven’t tasted it, it’s worth trying out.

Monkfish is known by several names, such as goosefish, frogfish, sea devil, and poor man’s lobster.

Saying this, it has a taste and texture similar to lobster.

This fish is meaty and has a mildly sweet flavor without being too fishy.

This fish is versatile and can be prepared in any method, be it curry, pan-fried, stews, or grilled.

But it’s best prepared with strong flavors and spices, given its mild taste.

Also, you can substitute monkfish for lobster in your dishes as they have a similar taste.

Besides enjoying its meat, monkfish provides several health and nutritional benefits and is considered one of the healthiest fish as it’s low in calories and fat.

Also, monkfish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help fight cardiovascular diseases and lower cholesterol levels.

You’d be glad to know that this fish contains plenty of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fat essential for a healthy lifestyle.

It contains phosphorous, calcium, zinc, sodium, niacin, potassium, and vitamins E, A, and K.

Its valuable sources help boost immunity, maintain bone health, enhance muscle strength, reduce inflammation, aid digestion, and help keep the skin and hair healthy.

But on the other hand, although it provides an abundance of benefits, it has a high level of mercury, so pregnant women and children should avoid this fish.

How to Cook and Serve Monkfish?

There are several ways you can cook this fish or can prepare it like any other seafood.

Though you can eat the meat of a monkfish cured or raw, it’s often cooked.

Since its meat is firm, even if you’re roasting, grilling, or baking, it won’t fall apart, but don’t let it overcook as it can go dry and tough.

You can also marinate the fish with spices and seasonings you like before cooking.

You can cook this seafood however you like, be it poaching, sautéing, skewering, or broiling, as it will still taste delicious.

If pan-frying, you can use butter and let it cook for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.

For grilling, you can marinate it first; preparation takes just a few minutes.

Also, monkfish curry is another popular way of cooking this fish as its meaty texture works well with complex spices.

Likewise, you can use several cooking methods and add seasonings as per your taste and enjoy this flavorful fish.

Additionally, you can serve monkfish with cilantro lime rice, roasted veggies, salad, sautéed onions, green beans, and mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Although terrifying to look at, monkfish have excellent taste and flavor.

Also, it can be used as an alternative to lobster or other meat while cooking.

It’s easy to prepare and hosts an array of health benefits that can help your body fight against various diseases.

Plus, they’re pretty affordable too.

So if you’re still deciding whether to try this weird-looking fish, you should give it a go.

Cook it however you like using the best ingredients in your kitchen and try a new recipe and can use various other methods as well.