Butterfish is a delicious seafood option that is gaining popularity across the world. Known for its rich, buttery taste and delicate texture, butterfish is a versatile fish that can be cooked in many ways. If you’re a seafood lover looking to add a new dish to your repertoire, then you’ll want to learn how to cook butterfish.

Introduction

Butterfish is a type of white fish that is found in the Pacific Ocean. It’s a small fish that typically grows to about 12 inches in length and can weigh up to 1 pound. Butterfish is a popular seafood option in Japan, where it is known as “mutsu.” In the United States, butterfish is caught off the coast of New England and is sold fresh or frozen.

Butterfish is an excellent seafood option for those who love rich, buttery flavors. It’s also a healthy option, as it’s high in protein and low in fat. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to cook butterfish, from selecting the right fish to cooking it to perfection.

Choosing the Right Butterfish

Choosing the right butterfish is essential to ensuring a delicious and successful dish. Here are some tips to help you select the best butterfish:

Fresh vs. Frozen

Fresh butterfish is always the best option, but it may not be available in all areas. If you can’t find fresh butterfish, frozen butterfish is a good alternative. When buying frozen butterfish, make sure it’s been properly frozen and thawed before cooking.

How to Select the Best Butterfish

When buying butterfish, look for fish that has clear eyes, firm flesh, and a fresh smell. The skin should be shiny and have a metallic sheen. Avoid fish that has a grayish color or a fishy smell.

Tips for Buying Butterfish

If you’re buying fresh butterfish, make sure to buy it on the day that it’s caught. If you’re buying frozen butterfish, make sure it’s been properly frozen and thawed before cooking. When buying butterfish, ask your fishmonger for advice on how to select the best fish.

Preparing the Butterfish

Before cooking the butterfish, it’s essential to prepare it correctly. Here are the steps to follow:

Cleaning and Gutting the Butterfish

Rinse the butterfish under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to remove the scales and fins, then cut off the head and tail. Next, make an incision along the belly of the fish and remove the entrails. Rinse the fish once more under cold water and pat dry.

Preparing the Butterfish for Cooking

You can cook butterfish whole or filleted. If you’re cooking it whole, make sure to score the skin with a sharp knife to prevent it from curling up when cooking. If you’re filleting the fish, remove the bones and skin before cooking.

Seasoning the Butterfish

Butterfish has a delicate flavor, so it’s best to keep the seasoning simple. You can season the fish with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice before cooking. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

Cooking Methods for Butterfish

Butterfish can be cooked in many ways, including:

Pan-Frying Butterfish

Pan-frying is a simple and quick way to cook butterfish. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Season the butterfish with salt and pepper, then place it in the pan skin-side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy, then flip the fish and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Grilling Butterfish

Grilling is another great way to cook butterfish. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the fish with oil. Season with salt and pepper, then place the fish on the grill skin-side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy, then flip the fish and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Baking Butterfish

Baking is a healthy and easy way to cook butterfish. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the butterfish in a baking dish. Season the fish with salt, pepper, and herbs, then bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish is cooked through.

Steaming Butterfish

Steaming is a gentle way to cook butterfish that preserves its delicate flavor. Place the fish in a steamer basket and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Steam for 8-10 minutes until the fish is cooked through. Serve with steamed vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.