Monkfish may not be pretty in any sense of the word, but it is definitely tasty. It is lovingly referred to as “poor man’s lobster” because of its meaty texture and sweet flavor. Monkfish is a really versatile fish that can be grilled, fried, seared, baked, or even boiled. Try all 11 of these recipes to see for yourself! No matter how you choose to prepare it, I think you will really enjoy each of these monkfish dishes.
1. Poor Man’s Lobster
Because of its texture, monkfish is often called “poor man’s lobster.” It’s less expensive than lobster and is very similar in taste and appearance. Monkfish flesh is sweet and firm, and this recipe is actually one of my favorites. The focus of this dish is a delectable brown butter sauce. It has just the right amount of added flavor, without hiding the clean flavors of the monkfish.
2. Monkfish in Tomato Garlic Sauce
This recipe really showcases the monkfish while still enhancing it with a delicious sauce. Cook the monkfish with salt and pepper and let the tomato garlic sauce do the rest of the work. The garlic in this sauce is sliced super thin for such a nice touch. This sauce is out of this world good. There’s also crispy fried garlic on top of the fish that gives the dish a slight crunch. This is a really great date night at-home meal if you want to impress your date!
3. Monkfish with Lemon Butter Sauce
I love lemon on fish and I love butter on, well, pretty much everything. This pan-seared monkfish is flavored with simple ingredients but it’s still so tasty! Just swirl oil and butter in a pan until it gets hot, then add the monkfish. Then all of that heavenly sauce gets spooned over the fish so it all melts into the flesh. I love serving this fish dish with some roasted veggies and some seasoned rice.
4. Catalan Monkfish
This dish originates from a part of Spain called Catalonia. This is where Spain and France meet on the Mediterranean side. The sauce is a really important part of this dish. It has flavors of garlic and fresh tomatoes with a really decadent saffron flavor. The fish is basically bathing in this dreamy sauce and you can add potatoes or any other side. Anything will taste good with this sauce on it.
5. Baked Monkfish with Lemon, Rosemary, and Breadcrumbs
Since monkfish is a really firm fish, it can stand up to a crispy topping like this recipe. The breadcrumbs are flavored with lemon juice, rosemary, and garlic. The tart lemons and herbaceous rosemary are a superb combination. I really love these flavors with the sweet flesh of monkfish. This dish can be served with any side dish you like with your fish. This is a great dish to whip up for family dinner or even if you’re hosting a gathering with friends.
6. Spiced Monkfish
This recipe is full of strong flavors that pack a punch. Ginger, saffron, and curry seasoning are an exquisite blend of spices. Monkfish is a really good fish for them because of its meaty texture and naturally sweet flavor. The monkfish in this recipe gets seasoned and then pan-fried in butter. It’s a really special dish. Serve this on top of plain rice so it can soak up all that spectacular sauce.
7. Roast Monkfish with Lemon and Parsley Butter
Monkfish really lends itself to different cooking methods due to its firm and meaty texture. I love when meat is pan-seared and then finished in the oven. This fish recipe is prepared exactly like that and it’s near perfect. Pan sear the fish to get a really crispy crust on it and then cook it in the oven to develop a flaky and buttery inside. The lemon, butter, and parsley give the fish the perfect dash of brightness. This is the perfect fish to go with a nice glass of pinot noir.
8. Grilled Monkfish with Roasted Pepper
Not all fish can be grilled because they fall apart easily, but monkfish can easily stand up to a grill. Grilled peppers and onions also play a big role in this recipe. I love the way grilled veggies give dishes a ton of flavor. This grilled fish and veggie dish is simple enough for a cookout but will impress everybody way more than a burger or hot dogs.
9. Pan-Seared Monkfish with White Wine Garlic Sauce
I love this white wine garlic sauce and monkfish recipe. The sauce is absolutely heavenly. Monkfish is pan-seared with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Just let the yummy sauce add all the flavor here. Simmer minced garlic, olive oil, and white wine until it thickens, and pour it over the fish. This dish is so tasty, it’s shocking how simple it is. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for a balanced and scrumptious meal.
10. Monkfish and Chips with Remoulade
Any time I have a hearty, firm fish like monkfish, I debate making fish and chips. It does really well in the fryer because of its meaty texture. When done properly, this fish and chips meal is to die for. The golden brown, crispy coating of this fried monkfish is perfect. The fish stays super tender inside and it’s a beautiful contrast from the crunch on the outside. Don’t skip the homemade french fries in this recipe. It’s a few more steps than an “easy” dinner but it’s worth it. These fries are crispy and salty, just like you’d want your side of spuds to be.
11. Monkfish and Cauliflower Chowder
This monkfish recipe is unique and so good. First, this is not what you think of when you think of chowder. This chowder is made with a really yummy tomato broth. It has leeks, garlic, and cauliflower that all offer some special flavors. The monkfish in this soup is the best option because it doesn’t fall apart while floating around in the broth. You still get delicious chunks of monkfish with a spoonful of flavorful broth and veggies. Click on a star to rate it!
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