Barbecued Monkfish

Barbecued monkfish is a delicious and flavorful dish that highlights the firm and meaty texture of monkfish. This recipe combines the succulent monkfish chunks with a zesty marinade, resulting in a delightful combination of flavors. The marinade, featuring olive oil, lime zest, Thai fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and fresh basil, infuses the fish with tangy and aromatic notes. Grilling the monkfish skewers with lime wedges adds a touch of citrusy brightness to the dish.

Barbecuing the monkfish not only imparts a smoky flavor but also ensures that the fish cooks evenly and retains its juiciness. The resulting dish is a perfect balance of textures, with the tender monkfish complemented by the slight caramelization from the grill. Serve the barbecued monkfish with your choice of noodles or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Grated zest of 1 lime
• 2 teaspoons Thai fish sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh root ginger
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 700g/11⁄2lb monkfish fillet, cut into chunks
• 2 limes, each cut into 6 wedges
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Noodles or rice, to serve

PREPARATION:

1. Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime zest, Thai fish sauce, crushed garlic, grated ginger, and chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Wash the monkfish fillet under cold running water and pat it dry with kitchen paper. Cut the fillet into chunks and add them to the marinade. Mix well to ensure the fish is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the fish marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Preheat a charcoal barbecue or grill until hot.
5. Lift the monkfish chunks from the marinade and thread them onto the soaked bamboo skewers, alternating with lime wedges.
6. Place the skewers on the hot barbecue or under the grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning regularly, until the fish is tender and cooked through.
7. Serve the barbecued monkfish skewers with your choice of noodles or rice.

YIELD:

This recipe serves 4.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Soaking the bamboo skewers in water prevents them from burning during grilling.
• Ensure the grill or barbecue is hot before placing the skewers on it. This will help achieve a nice sear on the monkfish.
• Remember to turn the skewers regularly to cook the fish evenly on all sides.
• Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the monkfish chunks. Thicker pieces may require slightly more cooking time.
• Season the monkfish with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
• Consider serving the barbecued monkfish skewers with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

TIPS:

• Experiment with different marinade variations by adding ingredients like chili flakes, soy sauce, or honey for added depth of flavor.
• If you don’t have access to a grill or barbecue, you can also cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or in the oven under the broiler.
• Make sure to preheat the grill or barbecue to ensure proper cooking and avoid sticking.
• For a burst of freshness, squeeze some lime juice over the cooked skewers before serving.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
• Remember to handle the skewers with oven mitts or tongs, as they will be hot after grilling.

Barbecued monkfish is a delightful seafood dish that showcases the succulent and firm texture of monkfish. With its zesty marinade and charred grill marks, this recipe brings out the best flavors in the fish. The combination of olive oil, lime zest, Thai fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and fresh basil creates a tangy and aromatic marinade that infuses the monkfish with vibrant flavors.

Grilling the monkfish skewers with lime wedges adds a touch of citrusy brightness and enhances the overall taste. The caramelization from the grill imparts a smoky flavor while keeping the fish tender and juicy. Served with your choice of noodles or rice, this dish offers a complete and satisfying meal that is perfect for gatherings or a special dinner at home.

To ensure the best results, remember to soak the bamboo skewers before grilling and marinate the monkfish for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld. Preheat your grill or barbecue until it is hot and cook the skewers for a few minutes on each side, turning them regularly to ensure even cooking.

Barbecued monkfish skewers can be served as a main course or as part of a seafood feast. Pair them with your favorite side dishes, such as a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or steamed rice, to create a well-rounded meal.

This recipe offers versatility and the opportunity for experimentation. Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. Whether cooked outdoors on a sunny day or indoors using a grill pan, the barbecued monkfish will be a delicious and impressive addition to your menu.

Indulge in the flavors of succulent monkfish, zesty marinade, and the smoky goodness of the grill with this delightful recipe. Barbecued monkfish is a dish that is sure to please seafood lovers and leave a lasting impression on your guests.