Grill Mahi Mahi

Mahi mahi is a flavorful, dense, firm fish that can be found in fillets or steaks. This rich fish is called dolphin in some parts of the world, though not in the family of dolphins that are mammals. To eliminate possible confusion, it has become known by its Hawaiian name mahi mahi, which means strong. In other parts of the world it is known as Dorado,which is its actual scientific name. The tasty fish is low in carbohydrates and fat, so it is a healthful choice for almost any diet. Mahi mahi also tastes great by itself, with simple herbs and spices or with just about any sauces, marinades or salsas, so it is as diverse as it is delicious. Because the flavor is so pleasing and the fillets or steaks cook easily, learning how to grill mahi mahi to perfection is quite simple.

Steps

  1. Purchase mahi mahi steaks or fillets from your local grocery store or seafood market.
    • When selecting your mahi mahi, look for steaks or fillets that do not have separation in the layers of meat, dull coloring or a fishy smell. These characteristics could indicate that the fish is not fresh.
  2. Apply cooking oil or spray to your grill prior to grilling mahi mahi to prevent it from sticking.
  3. Heat your grill to medium high or high.
    • If you decide to grill mahi mahi on a very hot grill, watch it carefully and turn it as needed to prevent burning it.
  4. Grill mahi mahi about 5 to 10 minutes per side, flipping the steaks or fillets when the color starts to turn white.
  5. Marinate your mahi mahi when you flip it if you are using a marinade or dressing.
    • This will help it to retain moisture and prevent it from drying out while on the grill.
  6. Test your mahi mahi to see if it is done by flaking it with a fork.
  7. Continue grilling mahi mahi if it doesn't flake easily, flipping it from side to side until flaking occurs.
  8. Season your mahi mahi when it is about ready to be taken off the grill.
  9. Serve your grilled mahi mahi with salsa, sauce or by itself and enjoy.
  10. Refrigerate any leftover mahi mahi and try it in a salad the next day.



Tips

  • A little olive oil, salt and pepper is all the marinade this fish needs. This isn't a bottom feeding garbage fish, don't cook it like one.
  • If you don't want to put your mahi mahi steaks or fillets directly on the surface of your grill, cover it with aluminum foil first. Remember to put cooking oil or spray on the foil before grilling your mahi mahi.
  • Try grilled mahi mahi with just a little salt and enjoy the natural flavor of the fish.
  • Italian salad dressing or vinaigrette make a great marinades when grilling mahi mahi.
  • When learning how to grill mahi mahi, try using your favorite marinade. Soak your mahi mahi steaks in the marinade for several hours before grilling. Baste the mahi mahi with the marinade while grilling for added flavor and juiciness.
  • For a completely different twist on grilled mahi mahi, try basting it with barbecue sauce while on the grill. Baste each side as your turn your steaks while grilling. When it is ready to serve, add more barbecue sauce for added flavor.

Warnings

  • Do not overcook mahi mahi. This will make the texture of your steaks or fillets tough.
  • Do not allow any portions of mahi mahi to be left out for very long.
  • Never served undercooked mahi mahi. If you are not sure if it is done, grill it a little longer to be on the safe side.

Things You'll Need

  • Mahi mahi steaks or fillets
  • Cooking oil or spray
  • Marinade of your choice (optional)
  • Herbs and spices of your choice (optional)

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Sources and Citations

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