What Are Fish Grilling Baskets And When Should You Use One?

When to use a fish grilling basket

You can use a grill basket whenever you're grilling fish, but there are specific situations where it's especially beneficial. One such instance is when cooking thin fish, like tilapia, cod, and flounder. These types of fish are prone to breaking apart due to their delicate nature. A grill basket expands your cooking options for these thin fillets, which might otherwise require alternative methods. This is true even when grilling over direct heat, as the basket prevents the fish from sticking to the grill grates, allowing thin cuts to remain intact throughout the cooking process.

Another scenario where a grill basket proves useful is when grilling fish that tends to stick to the grill. Skinless fish can be particularly tricky in this regard. Typically, the skin acts as a protective layer, keeping the fish's flesh intact while it cooks by creating a barrier between the fish and the grill grate. Celebrity chef José Andrés even suggests that you're missing out on the best part of grilled fish if you don't use the skin. A fish grill basket functions similarly, with its metal bars keeping the fish from direct contact with the grill. This means no sticking occurs. So, whenever you're grilling skinless fish, make it a habit to use your basket to avoid any sticking issues.

Types of grill baskets

Fish grill baskets are available in various shapes and sizes, typically made from non-stick steel or stainless steel. However, you can also find options in carbon steel and cast iron. Each material and design has its own advantages and disadvantages.

When it comes to materials, non-stick baskets are the easiest to clean, while stainless steel may show signs of discoloration after multiple uses. Carbon steel is lightweight, whereas cast iron is much heavier. Carbon steel baskets heat up quickly, allowing for faster cooking and cooling times. In contrast, cast iron grill baskets are known for their ability to retain heat, similar to Dutch ovens, which can lead to carryover cooking.

The variety of designs available provides grill enthusiasts with numerous choices. Some baskets can accommodate three or four fish and feature compartments that keep ingredients separate. Depending on the brand, these compartments can often be removed to create a larger cooking space. Opting for a larger basket allows you to cook multiple fish at once, as well as vegetables and other items alongside your main dish. Conversely, single-fish grill baskets are convenient for cooking just one fish without the need to use a larger basket, minimizing cleanup.

Using a fish grill basket is safer than the alternative

Ultimately, there are several additional advantages to using a grill basket, with safety being a primary concern. Many baskets feature long handles that extend away from the grill, similar to the handle of a cooking pot. This design helps keep your hands at a safe distance from the heat source, minimizing the risk of burns. If you've experienced issues with this in the past, consider using a fish flipper when it's time to fire up the grill. Doing so significantly lowers the chances of accidentally roasting your fingers along with the fish.

Moreover, grill baskets offer another safety advantage. They prevent food pieces from slipping through the grill grates and into the gas jets or charcoal. When food falls between the grates, it can lead to flare-ups, which can be both annoying and messy to clean up. In the worst-case scenario, it could result in singed eyebrows or worse. In essence, your humble grill basket might be the only thing standing between you and an unexpected visit to the urgent care on grilling nights.