If you are a fan of outdoor BBQs and love to experiment with new recipes, then you will surely love this BBQ grilled whole fish recipe! This recipe is simple to prepare and guarantees to impress your guests with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation. The best part about grilling a whole fish is that it allows you to enjoy the fish’s natural flavors, and it is perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, and family dinners.
Ingredients
1 whole fish (2-3 pounds) – we recommend using a firm fish like red snapper, sea bass, or trout
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Fresh herbs – thyme, rosemary, and parsley
Lemon slices
Garlic cloves
Butter
Optional ingredients – paprika, cumin, coriander, chili powder
Preparation
Before grilling the fish, you need to prepare it by scaling, gutting, and cleaning it. First, use a fish scaler or a dull knife to remove the scales from the fish’s skin. Then, use a sharp knife to gut the fish and remove its innards. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Next, season the fish with salt and pepper, and drizzle olive oil all over it. Then, stuff the fish with fresh herbs, lemon slices, garlic cloves, and butter. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add some optional spices like paprika, cumin, coriander, or chili powder.
Grilling
Now, it’s time to grill the fish! There are a few different methods to grill a whole fish, depending on your preference. You can either grill it directly over high heat, indirectly over medium heat, or cook it in a foil packet.
If you choose to grill it directly, preheat your grill to high heat, and brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place the fish on the grill, skin side down, and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fish. Use a spatula and tongs to carefully flip the fish, so it doesn’t break apart.
If you prefer to grill the fish indirectly, preheat your grill to medium heat, and place the fish on a foil-lined baking sheet. Grill the fish for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish, until the flesh is opaque and flaky.
If you choose to cook the fish in a foil packet, place the fish on a large sheet of aluminum foil, and fold the edges to make a packet. Grill the fish for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish, until it is fully cooked.
Serving
Once the fish is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. To serve, carefully remove the skin and bones, and serve the fish with fresh lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and your favorite side dishes.
For a delicious side dish, try grilling some vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. You can also serve the fish with a refreshing salad or some grilled corn.
If you want to add another dish to your BBQ menu, we recommend trying this delicious barbecue chicken recipe. It’s easy to prepare, and it pairs perfectly with the grilled whole fish.
Ingredients:
4 chicken thighs
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Preparation:
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and brush them with olive oil. Preheat your grill to medium heat and place the chicken on the grill. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. Brush the chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce, and grill for another minute or two on each side until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
Conclusion
Grilling a whole fish is a great way to impress your guests and enjoy a delicious meal outdoors. With this BBQ grilled whole fish recipe, you can easily prepare a mouth-watering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Remember to choose a firm fish, season it well, and grill it perfectly. And for an extra dish on your BBQ menu, don’t forget to try the delicious barbecue chicken recipe.
So, fire up your grill, grab your favorite beverage, and get ready to enjoy some mouth-watering magic!
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any firm fish that is suitable for grilling. Some other great options include branzino, grouper, or snapper.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is fully cooked when the flesh is opaque and flaky. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish, which should be 145°F.
Can I use a gas grill or a charcoal grill for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either a gas grill or a charcoal grill for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the heat accordingly and keep an eye on the fish while it’s grilling.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the grill?
To prevent the fish from sticking to the grill, make sure to brush the grates with oil before grilling. You can also brush the fish with oil or use a non-stick spray.