
Photo: iStock
Baked mahi mahi
Mahi Mahi is a highly prized white fish – a lean and tender delicacy with a distinct flavour. It inhabits the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Costa Rica, Hawaii and the Indian Ocean. This delicious fish is an excellent and affordable alternative to halibut and can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, broiling and frying. However, one of our favourite ways to prepare it is to simply pan-sear it, allowing the natural flavours and flaky texture to shine through.
serves for
total time
ingredients
Method
Step 01
Position the rack in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 400°F (205°C).
Combine all the ingredients for the lemon-garlic mixture in a bowl and stir well. Set aside.
Step 02
Season both sides of the fillets with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
Step 03
In a large oven-safe pan, heat the olive oil over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the fish fillets and cook until browned on one side, about 3 minutes. Flip the fish fillets over and transfer the pan to the preheated oven.
Step 04
Roast the fish for about 5 minutes or until the top is golden and the centre is cooked through. A minute before the fish has finished cooking in the oven, heat the pan of the lemon-garlic mixture over medium-high heat, constantly stirring, until smooth.
Step 05
Pour the mixture over the fish. Serve with lemon slices for garnish.
Tips
- Make sure your mahi mahi portions are about 6-7oz (170-200g) each, at least 1-inch (2.5cm) thick. If your portions are thin or too small, they'll overcook.
- Dry the fish with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture – a crucial step that impacts how well the fish browns.
- Before adding the fish, ensure that your cooking oil is hot for quick and even browning.
- Preheat the oven to ensure it is hot when you transfer the mahi mahi directly from the stovetop. After five minutes in the oven, your dish will be ready.
What to serve with mahi mahi
To complete this delicious meal, serve a green salad or roasted vegetables as a side dish and some crusty bread, steamed rice, and mashed or roasted potatoes to soak up the flavourful sauce. Green vegetable, such as asparagus or green beans, also pair beautifully.