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Mahi mahi is a flavorful, dense, firm fish that can be found in fillets or steaks. This rich fish is called dolphinfish 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
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1Purchase 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.
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2Apply cooking oil or spray to your grill prior to grilling mahi mahi to prevent it from sticking.Advertisement
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3Heat 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.
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4Grill mahi mahi about 5 to 10 minutes per side, flipping the steaks or fillets when the color starts to turn white.
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5Marinate 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.
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6Test your mahi mahi to see if it is done by flaking it with a fork.
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7Continue grilling mahi mahi if it doesn't flake easily, flipping it from side to side until flaking occurs.
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8Season your mahi mahi when it is about ready to be taken off the grill.
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9Serve your grilled mahi mahi with salsa, sauce or by itself and enjoy.
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10Refrigerate any leftover mahi mahi and try it in a salad the next day.
Community Q&A
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QuestionWhat should the internal temperature of the fish be to ensure it's cooked through?Community AnswerFish is cooked through once it reaches 130-140 degrees. Because it continues cooking for a bit after pulling it off the grill, 135 degrees is a good temperature at which to remove it.
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QuestionWhat kind of salsa should I use?Any kind you like. Try a light mango salsa or an Italian seasoned red sauce. Make a mornay sauce or pico de gallo. The possibilities are endless.
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QuestionDo I need to take the skin off the fish before cooking it?Community AnswerIt's up to you, but I do recommend removing the skin before cooking the fish.
Warnings
- Do not overcook mahi mahi. This will make the texture of your steaks or fillets tough.⧼thumbs_response⧽
- 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.⧼thumbs_response⧽
- Do not allow any portions of mahi mahi to be left out for very long.⧼thumbs_response⧽
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)
References
About This Article
If you want to grill mahi mahi, apply a thin layer of cooking oil or spray to your grill grates to keep the fish from sticking. Heat your grill to medium-high or high, and let it get up to temperature before you add the fish. When the grill is hot, cook the fish for about 5-10 minutes on each side. Flip the fish when they start to turn white. When the mahi mahi is ready, it will be white and opaque, and the meat will flake easily. Season the fish just before you take it off the grill, then serve and enjoy! Keep reading for tips on marinating your mahi mahi!