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The first time I had a feeling of Mahi-Mahi was when my family and I went on vacation. The name sounded ridiculous, and the aroma was something that knocks me off my feet.
I was forced to ask the waiter to tell me a bit about Mahi Mahi, and how it tastes. His answers were vague, and he didn’t explain much. All he said was, “Mahi-Mahi tastes nice, and he will recommend I give it a try.” His answers aggravated more curiosity in me and left me with no choice but to make up my mind and tried this tasty fish; the fact remains that I didn’t regret it!
I’m glad to educate and spread the word on how healthy the fish is and to also answer the question, what does “Mahi Mahi taste like?”
The name Mahi Mahi is coined from a Hawaiian word, and it means Strong. The first is believed that the fish is fast and powerful in the water. Mahi Mahi is referred to as Mahi while others call it Dorado. Way back, it was called a dolphin fish.
What is Mahi-Mahi?
In the early 80s, Mahi Mahi was called dolphinfish, which made people believe they were served with dolphins. To avoid any form of confusion, the name Mahi Mahi was used in a market setting.
And when they are alive, they appear in different colors. They appear golden colored at the side of their body, with a blue, and green color on their back.
The pectoral fins are iridescent blue. And once they are out of the water, they become yellow-grey. They are carnivorous, and most times, feed on forage fishes.
The male fish is easily recognized due to their prominent forehead that is shot out the body, while the females have a rounded head and are smaller in size compare to the size of the male. They both share the same color, a blend of blue and green, and golden spots on their side. A standard Mahi Mahi weighs approximately 4 Ibs though some are large and can weigh 14 – 30 Ibs.
Why Should You Eat Mahi-Mahi?
Mahi is accompanied by lots of health benefits and has a delicious taste, if not for the taste, then I guess you will want to try it for tons of health benefits! To mention but a few:
A great source of low-fat protein
If you enjoy beef or pork, but value more of protein in your diet, then blending your diet with Mai-Mahi will be an excellent idea. The low-fat protein will help with muscle building and strength.
Low sodium content
Low sodium in diet helps to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. Mahi Mahi is a perfect choice that will blend seamlessly into your diet plan.
Rich in iron
Mahi-mahi is very rich in iron. Your body needs iron to prevent anemia and boost red blood cell activities.
Rich in Omega 3
Omega 3 has anti-cancer properties and also helps to keep the heart healthy. So if you’re suffering from high blood pressure, we recommend Mahi Mahi to remedy the symptoms. Omega 3 fatty acids regulate triglyceride levels and help people with arrhythmia and atherosclerosis.
Excellent Source of Essential Vitamins
Mahi Mahi is rich in vitamins like B6, B3, B12, niacin, and pantothenic acid, which boost the body’s metabolism and help the skin appear sleek and healthy. All of these vitamins are known to support all DNA formation and enhance the nervous system.
Excellent Source of Essential Minerals
Mahi-mahi is a good source of phosphorus, selenium, and magnesium. Selenium, aside from enhancing the functionality of the thyroid gland, serves as an antioxidant, which boosts the activities of the body’s immune system. Phosphorous give your body the needed energy to get through a busy day; additionally, it’s required by the cell membrane for healthy bones. Magnesium is also known to optimize the functions of the muscles and nerves.
What Does Mahi-Mahi Taste Like?
Here is the big question; what does Mahi Mahi taste like? The best way to get around this question is to compare it with a different fish that is similar.
In comparison with the texture, mahi-mahi looks like a swordfish. It’s a fleshy fish that is suitable for grilling and marinating. And when it comes to how it tastes, mahi-mahi fish has a milder flavor that’s a bit different from swordfish.
Mahi gives off a stronger taste than the taste you get from a white fish like the popular cod.
If you have tasted halibut, swordfish, or cod, you’re pretty close to tasting something similar. It gives off a well-balanced and distinct sweet taste. Although this depends on how the general preparation is done, it is easy to cook and doesn’t require much time. So, you can either choose to broil, grill, or bake.
How To Prepare Mahi-Mahi
Mahi-Mahi is less demanding and can be prepared within minutes; however, there are a couple of things you need to know before taking a step further. These steps will help you avoid silly mistakes and give you the best taste even if this is your first time preparing the dish.
Once you buy a fresh Mahi Mahi fillet, it is advisable to rinse it properly, dry it with a paper towel and store it in the freezer. And if you intend to prepare it right away, you will need to choose the right method of preparation.
Extra Tips On How to Cook Mahi-Mahi
- Make sure the Mahi Mahi is ice up until you’re ready to start cooking.
- While the fish is cold, clean it properly; doing this will make other processes easier.
- If you prefer to get a milder flavor, trim off all the areas with dark spots.
- You can grill the fish with skin or without the skin. It all depends on what you want.
- To have the fish absorb the right amount of spices and season, consider removing the skin before applying it.
- When mahi-mahi is raw, they appear pink, gray, or white. And once cooked, the fillets become flaky and has an off white color.
- Mahi is prepared within minutes; try as much as you can not to cook it excessively since that can compromise the texture and the taste.
What To Serve With Mahi-Mahi
The best way to ensure your filets of mahi-mahi stay juice is to prepare them with steam and serve them with white rice, bok choy, and steamed carrots. You can as well drizzle it with enough doses of homemade chile oil and soy sauce.
Must Try Grilled Mahi-Mahi Recipe
You don’t need to be a chef or have any special cooking skills to get this down. Here are the lists of some ingredients you will need.
Ingredients You Need :
- If you’re cooking a four mahi-mahi fish, it weighs approximately two pounds.
- Use a quarter of mayonnaise
- A quarter teaspoon of garlic
- A quarter cup of chopped onion (white)
- Juice from one lemon.
- The right proportion of salt.
- Breadcrumbs
- Ground black pepper
Preparation Method :
- Let your oven get to 450 F
- Rinse the fillet properly and place them within a non-stick baking dish.
- Pour enough lemon juice on the fish fillets.
- Sprinkle enough garlic and black pepper over the fish.
- Spread enough mayonnaise on it.
- Place the chopped onions at the top of the mahi-mahi fillet.
- Enjoy yourself.
Conclusion
Don’t be left out of the feel. If you’re still wondering what Mahi Mahi feels like? Then take out time to visit one of the restaurants near you and place an order on this tropical gift of nature. I’m pretty sure you won’t regret it! You might end up considering it as one of your favorites.
However, if you intend to explore this alone, you start with simple recipes, something pretty easy to prepare. Keep all forms of seasonings basic; this will help promote the original sweet and mild taste, that’s everyone’s favorite.
Don’t forget to share your experience or view on the best way to enjoy this gift of Mother Nature. Feel free, to leave a comment in the box below.