Andrew Zimmern's Favorite Fish For Flavorful Grilling

Andrew Zimmern, renowned chef and television personality, is known for his adventurous palate and love for bold flavors. When it comes to grilling fish, Zimmern gravitates towards species that offer robust taste and texture, ideal for absorbing the smoky richness of an open flame. One of his top choices is the versatile and hearty swordfish, prized for its firm flesh that holds up well on the grill. Its mild flavor serves as a perfect canvas for marinades and seasonings, allowing for culinary creativity. Another favorite is mackerel, celebrated for its rich, oily flesh that becomes beautifully caramelized when grilled, imparting a deep, savory flavor profile. This fish pairs well with citrus and aromatic herbs, enhancing its natural taste. Zimmern also recommends grilling whole branzino, a Mediterranean sea bass known for its delicate, sweet flavor and tender texture. Grilling it whole allows for a succulent, moist result, with the skin becoming crisp and flavorful. These selections reflect Zimmern's appreciation for both traditional and innovative culinary techniques, highlighting his belief that grilling is not just a cooking method but an opportunity to explore and elevate the inherent flavors of each fish.
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What sets this special fish apart

In contrast to traditional striped bass, which inhabit freshwater lakes and ponds, Pacifico varieties flourish in the open ocean. This distinction is significant, as the unique origins of this fish make it a more environmentally-friendly option compared to others. In fact, it is recognized as the only four-star striped bass by Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), according to farmer and supplier Pacifico Aquaculture. This certification indicates that the fish is sourced from a BAP-certified farm that employs sustainable methods.

Additionally, immediately after harvesting, the fish is placed on ice to maintain its exceptional quality. With the right supplier, you can be assured that this fish is both a responsible and delicious choice.

While there are numerous effective ways to grill Pacifico striped bass, we have a few tips to help you achieve the best results. First, pat the fish dry on both sides with paper towels before grilling to ensure it turns out juicy and crisp rather than soggy. Next, start by grilling the fish skin-side down to protect the delicate flesh from flaking and falling through the grates. Once the skin is golden-brown, flip the fish and cook the other side briefly. After that, the fillets should be ready. Allow the fillet to rest before slicing to keep its juices intact. When you're set to enjoy, savor those tender, smoky flavors.

How to prepare this versatile fish

There are numerous ways to prepare Pacifico striped bass due to its adaptability, but Andrew Zimmern has shared one of his favorite methods on his website. To balance the smoky flavors, Zimmern incorporates fresh ginger juice and a spicy caramel infused with fish sauce. He begins by marinating the fish in ginger juice to allow it to absorb the bold flavors, then bastes it with additional juice while grilling. To finish, he drizzles his unique caramel sauce over the dish.

To enhance the salty notes, adding other acidic elements like lemon or lime juice is a fantastic idea. Sweet cherry tomatoes can also provide a delightful acidic kick, complemented by a touch of sweetness. Grilling the tomatoes beforehand allows their juices to blend beautifully with the fish.

There are many tips for creating an impressive fish dinner, but it all begins with selecting the finest fish. If you want to wow your guests, start your culinary adventure with a Pacifico striped bass, just like Zimmern suggests, and everything else will fall into place. (And if you enjoy this expert advice, be sure to check out Zimmern's pro tips for discovering the best restaurants next.)

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