Crispy Asian-Style Whole Pike in the Air Fryer
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat15gram
Protein40gram
Ingredients
- whole pike fish (cleaned and gutted) - medium sized around 1-1.2 kg (2.2-2.6 lbs)1 piece
- soy sauce - choose a light or regular soy sauce for balanced saltiness3 tbsp
- fresh ginger - choose firm, smooth skin for best flavor, grated1 tbsp
- garlic cloves - fresh, firm and plump3 pieces
- sesame oil - toasted sesame oil gives the best aroma1 tbsp
- brown sugar or honey - for a touch of sweetness2 tsp
- rice vinegar - adds acidity and balance to the marinade1 tbsp
- green onions (scallions) - thinly sliced for garnish2 pieces
- red chili flakes (optional) - for a little heat1/2 tsp
- salt - to taste (keep minimal due to soy sauce)to taste n/a
- black pepper - freshly groundto taste n/a
Cook a flavorful whole pike infused with Asian seasonings easily using your air fryer. This recipe offers a delightful crispy skin and tender, juicy flesh inside. It uses familiar ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $15 (€14, £12, ₹1200). Each serving contains about 350 kcal, suitable for a balanced diet. Difficulty is easy, and total cooking time is around 40 minutes including preparation.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the marinade
1In a bowl, combine soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic (crushed or finely chopped), sesame oil, brown sugar or honey, rice vinegar, and red chili flakes (if using). Mix well until the sugar dissolves. This marinade will infuse the pike with Asian flavors and help tenderize the fish.
Clean and score the fish
2Rinse the whole pike under cold water, pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. Lightly salt and pepper the fish inside and out. Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 diagonal slashes on each side, about 1 inch apart. This allows the marinade to penetrate and ensures even cooking.
Marinate the fish
3Place the pike in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over, making sure to coat inside the cavity and slashes. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator. If refrigerated, bring the fish back to room temperature before cooking for even air frying.
Preheat the air fryer
4Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 3-5 minutes. A preheated air fryer ensures the fish cooks evenly and develops crisp skin.
Cook the fish in the air fryer
5Place the marinated whole pike in the air fryer basket or tray seam side down. Cook at 180°C (356°F) for 18-20 minutes. Halfway through cooking (around 10 minutes), carefully flip the fish to ensure even browning. Cooking times may vary with different air fryer models; start checking at 15 minutes.
Check doneness and internal temperature
6Use a food-safe instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the fish (near the backbone). The safe internal temperature for fish is 63°C (145°F). The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If not done, cook for a few more minutes and check again.
Garnish and serve
7Once cooked, carefully remove the fish from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top. Serve immediately with steamed rice and steamed vegetables, if desired.
Cooking Tips
1Pat the fish dry thoroughly before marinating to help the skin crisp nicely in the air fryer.
2Use a gentle touch when flipping the fish to avoid breaking its skin or flesh.
3If your air fryer is small, you may need to adjust cooking time or cook the fish in parts or use a smaller fish.
4Avoid cross-contamination by washing hands, utensils, and surfaces that touch raw fish.
5Let cooked fish rest for 2 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Instant-read food thermometer
- Tongs or spatula
- Small plate or bowl for marinade
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Whole pike fish (medium sized, cleaned) - Approx. $12 - Choose fresh fish with bright eyes and no fishy smell.
- [ ] Soy sauce (light or regular) - Approx. $2 for a small bottle - Look for naturally brewed for better flavor.
- [ ] Fresh ginger root - Approx. $0.50 - Select firm and smooth-skinned ginger.
- [ ] Garlic cloves - Approx. $0.30 - Pick firm, plump cloves without sprouts.
- [ ] Sesame oil (toasted) - Approx. $3 - Gives a rich nutty flavor.
- [ ] Brown sugar or honey - Approx. $1 - Adds balanced sweetness.
- [ ] Rice vinegar - Approx. $2 - A mild vinegar crucial for seasoning.
- [ ] Green onions (scallions) - Approx. $0.50 - Choose fresh, crisp stalks for garnish.
- [ ] Red chili flakes (optional) - Approx. $1 - Use for heat; optional.
Total Estimated Cost: $15 (Prices vary by location).
FAQ
Can I use a different fish instead of pike?
Yes, you can substitute with other whole white fish like tilapia or trout. Adjust cooking time according to size.
How do I know when the fish is safe to eat?
The fish should reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). The flesh will be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Can I pause the marinating process and refrigerate the fish?
Yes, you can marinate the fish in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour but bring it to room temperature before air frying for even cooking.
How do I avoid fish sticking to the air fryer basket?
You can lightly spray the basket with oil or place a perforated parchment to help prevent sticking. Also, ensure the fish skin is dry before cooking.