Mahi mahi, also known as dolphinfish or dorado, is a popular fish prized for its delicate flavor and versatility in cooking. Its mild, slightly sweet taste pairs well with a variety of ingredients and cooking methods, making it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike. When combined with the tropical flavors of papaya, mahi mahi shines in dishes that showcase its fresh, succulent texture. This article will explore some of the best recipes for cooking mahi mahi with papaya, offering a range of options to suit different tastes and preferences. From simple pan-seared fillets to elaborate curries and salads, these recipes highlight the harmonious blend of mahi mahi's mild flavor with the sweet and tangy notes of papaya, creating a culinary experience that is both delicious and visually appealing.
Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!
BLACKENED MAHI-MAHI WITH PAPAYA-CITRUS SALSA (OR OTHER FISH)
This an adpated recipe from the NOLA.com. The original recipe was first published in the Times-Picayune in 1994, when the famous blackening technique became popular by Paul Prudhomme. The recipe, calls for mahi-mahi, but other local finfish (redfish, drum, pompano, swordfish or even salmon) can be substituted. Make your spice mix in advance. Overlap your prep and chill time to save time. The cooking process goes quick! (NOTE: READ FISH PREP TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS-Instruction #2)
Provided by gailanng
Categories Mahi Mahi
Time 1h
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 21
Steps:
- To Make Blackened Spice Mix: In a food processor combine paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper, black pepper, coriander, thyme leaves and oregano leaves. Pulse to combine well. Store in a clean air-tight glass jar. Keeps for about three months if it is moisture-free and cool. Note: this mixtures doesn't have to be processed, just mix together thoroughly.
- TIPS for preparing the mahi prior to cooking: Prepare the fish by cutting it into fillets no more than one-half-inch thick. This way the fish cooks quickly and finishes before the spice mixture is burnt and bitter. Cut thicker fillets into pieces by slicing them on a 30-degree angle for an even thickness. Remove all skin, fatty tissue and bones. Deep-chill the mahi-mahi in the freezer for about 30 to 60 minutes before cooking, but do not freeze it.
- To Make the Papaya-Citrus Salsa: In a medium bowl combine papaya, orange segments, lime juice, red onion (to your taste), green onions and cilantro. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Refrigerate.
- To Cook the Mahi: Place a large, heavy, cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and allow to warm until white hot, at least 15 minutes. Remember to use heavy insulated cooking gloves, long tongs or a long-handled spatula and turn on the exhaust fan to high.
- Pour the olive oil and melted butter into a shallow medium-size pan or plate. Pour the spice mixture into another shallow pan or plate. Remove the fish from the freezer. Dredge each piece through the olive oil/butter mixture on both sides to evenly coat, holding it above the oil for a few seconds to allow the excess to drop back into the pan. The oil coating should be very thin. Lay the mahi onto the spices and apply light pressure to adhere the spices to the fish. Turn over to completely enrobe both sides of the fish pieces with the spices. Lay the spice-coated fish onto a cookie sheet while repeating the coating process with the remaining fish.
- Carefully lay the spiced-coated mahi into the hot skillet without overlapping or crowding. Cook the fish until the spice mixture browns, about two minutes. Turn over and finish cooking, about two to three additional minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. Remove to hot serving plates with a spatula, placing two slightly overlapping the pieces on the center of each plate. Depending on how large your cast iron pan, you may need to repeat this process.
- Divide the salsa in a band across the layered mahi or serve on the side. Garnish with the cilantro sprigs and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 413.2, Fat 15.4, SaturatedFat 5.2, Cholesterol 118.7, Sodium 2527.6, Carbohydrate 44.3, Fiber 10.3, Sugar 26.1, Protein 30.3
PUMPKIN SEED CRUSTED MAHI MAHI WITH MANGO AND PAPAYA STEW
Provided by Food Network
Time 1h15m
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Grind and combine the pumpkin seeds and the pink peppercorns. Coat the mahi mahi fillets with the pumpkin seed, pink peppercorn mixture and season with salt and pepper. Set aside. In medium saute pan, over medium high heat, saute the peppers and shallots in olive oil. Add the mango and papaya. Deglaze with vermouth. Add the chicken stock and clam juice, then add the crabmeat. Finish with scallions, and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm. In a medium saute pan, over medium to high heat, cook the fish in olive oil, 3 to 4 minutes each side or until golden brown. Serve with mango and papaya sauce.;
Tips:
- Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the taste of your dish. Look for fresh mahi-mahi fillets that are firm and have a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Use ripe papaya that is firm but not too hard.
- Marinate the mahi-mahi: Marinating the fish in a mixture of citrus juice, herbs, and spices will help to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor. You can marinate the fish for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- Cook the mahi-mahi properly: Mahi-mahi is a delicate fish that cooks quickly. Be careful not to overcook it, or it will become dry and tough. The best way to cook mahi-mahi is to grill, pan-fry, or bake it until it is just cooked through.
- Pair the mahi-mahi with complementary flavors: Mahi-mahi pairs well with a variety of flavors, such as citrus, tropical fruits, and herbs. You can serve it with a simple lemon butter sauce, a tropical fruit salsa, or a grilled pineapple relish.
Conclusion:
Mahi-mahi is a delicious and versatile fish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Whether you are grilling, pan-frying, or baking it, mahi-mahi is sure to please everyone at your table. With its mild flavor and firm texture, mahi-mahi is a great choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. So next time you are looking for a new seafood recipe to try, give mahi-mahi a try. You won't be disappointed!
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