Mahi mahi, also known as dolphinfish or dorado, is a popular firm white fish with a mildly sweet flavor. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook Mahi Mahi properly and suggesting delightful accompaniments with this type of fish for a perfect meal.
1. FAQs When Cooking Mahi Mahi
1.1. Should I Soak Mahi Mahi Before Cooking?
No, you don’t need to soak mahi mahi fillets before cooking. The flesh is firm enough that soaking is not required. Simply pat the fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
1.2. What Fish Does Mahi Mahi Taste Like?
Mahi mahi has a mild, sweet flavor similar to cod or halibut. It has a medium-firm texture and large, moist flakes when cooked properly. The flesh ranges from white to pink or orange. Mahi can hold up to bold seasonings and pairs well with citrus, garlic, herbs, butter and tropical fruit flavors.
1.3. How To Know When Mahi Mahi is Done?
Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet and twisting gently. When cooked through, the flesh will begin flaking and come away easily from the fork. The interior should be opaque and firm, not translucent. Mahi mahi is typically cooked to 145°F internal temperature. Take care not to overcook, as the flesh can become dry and stringy.
2. How To Cook Mahi Mahi
Ingredients
- 4 6-ounce mahi mahi fillets, skin removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Pat mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When oil is shimmering, add fillets skin-side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden.
Flip fillets and cook 2-3 minutes on the other side until fish flakes easily and is opaque throughout.
Transfer fish to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter in the pan. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Remove pan from heat and stir in lemon juice.
Spoon lemon garlic butter sauce over cooked mahi mahi fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
3. What To Serve With Pan Seared Mahi Mahi
Lemon Herb Quinoa: Cooked quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon provides a light and nutritious base for the Mahi Mahi.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini, adds vibrant colors and textures to the plate.
Mango Salsa: A tropical mango salsa with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice adds a refreshing and sweet contrast to the savory Mahi Mahi.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes with a hint of garlic and Parmesan cheese make for a hearty and satisfying side dish.
The simple preparation and light flavor of mahi mahi also allows the fresh ingredients to shine through. I hope that after reading this article, you know how to cook mahi mahi perfectly at home.
