Perfectly Broiled Whole Pike: A Delicious BBQ Delight
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat15gram
Protein40gram
Ingredients
- Whole fresh pike (cleaned and gutted) - choose one with clear eyes and firm flesh.1 piece (about 1.5 kg)
- Olive oil - pick extra virgin for better flavor.3 tbsp
- Lemon - ripe and juicy.1 piece
- Fresh thyme or dill - optional, for added aroma.2 tbsp (chopped)
- Garlic - fresh and firm bulbs.3 cloves (minced)
- Salt - use kosher or sea salt for better texture.1.5 tsp
- Black pepper - freshly ground preferred.1 tsp
Discover how to broil a whole pike on your BBQ grill with this easy and foolproof recipe, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Pike is a flavorful freshwater fish that, when broiled whole, offers a deliciously crispy skin and tender meat inside. This recipe guides you step-by-step while emphasizing food safety, ensuring your meal is delicious and safe. Total ingredient cost is approximately $15 (13 euros, 11 pounds, 1200 rupees), and the dish contains around 350 calories per serving. This medium-difficulty recipe takes about 40 minutes total, including preparation and cooking. Perfect for gathering around the grill with family or friends.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Pike
1Rinse the whole pike under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels inside and out. Carefully score the skin on both sides by making 3-4 diagonal cuts about 2 cm apart; this helps even cooking and flavor absorption. This step keeps the fish juicy while allowing the marinade to penetrate.
Make the Marinade
2In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped thyme or dill, salt, and pepper. Zest the lemon and add to the marinade for a fresh kick.
Marinate the Fish
3Rub the marinade all over the pike, including into the scored cuts and inside the cavity. Squeeze half the lemon over the fish. Let it sit for 15 minutes at room temperature, allowing flavors to meld and the fish to slightly tenderize.
Preheat the Broiler and Prepare the Grill
4Set your oven broiler or grill on the highest heat setting and allow it to preheat fully for about 10 minutes. Clean the grill grates to prevent the fish from sticking. If using a BBQ grill, oil the grate lightly using an oil-soaked paper towel held by tongs.
Broil the Pike
5Place the whole pike directly on the grill grate or on a broiler pan. Broil for about 6-8 minutes on one side. Keep the grill lid closed or oven door slightly ajar if needed to maintain heat and prevent overcooking.
Flip and Continue Broiling
6Carefully flip the pike using two spatulas or tongs to avoid breaking the flesh. Broil the other side for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature near the thickest part reaches 63°C (145°F). The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Rest and Serve
7Remove from heat and let the fish rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve with the remaining half lemon cut into wedges and your favorite side dishes.
Cooking Tips
1To avoid sticking and make flipping easier, ensure the grill grates are well cleaned and lightly oiled before placing the fish.
2If you do not have a BBQ grill or broiler, you can bake the pike in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes.
3Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw fish and other ingredients. Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw fish.
4Check for doneness not just by temperature but also by looking for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork, indicative of a safely cooked fish.
5You may stuff the cavity with lemon slices, herbs, or garlic cloves before marinating for extra flavor.
Equipment
- BBQ grill or oven broiler
- Tongs or two spatulas for flipping
- Sharp knife for scoring
- Small bowl for marinade
- Meat thermometer to check internal temperature
- Paper towels for drying fish
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Whole fresh pike (~1.5 kg) - $12.50 (Look for firm flesh and clear eyes, indicating freshness.)
- [ ] Olive oil (small bottle) - $3.00 (Extra virgin adds best flavor.)
- [ ] One fresh lemon - $0.50 (Choose firm, bright yellow, and heavy for juiciness.)
- [ ] Fresh thyme or dill bouquet - $1.00 (Optional, adds wonderful aroma.)
- [ ] Garlic bulb - $0.30 (Fresh cloves for bright flavor.)
- [ ] Kosher salt - $1.00 (Useful for cooking and seasoning.)
- [ ] Black peppercorns (small pack) - $1.50 (Fresh grind for best taste.)
Total Estimated Cost: $19.80 (approx.)
FAQ
Can I cook the pike without scoring the skin?
While you can cook without scoring, scoring helps the marinade penetrate better and ensures the fish cooks evenly. It also helps avoid the skin curling up while cooking.
How do I know when the pike is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) near the thickest part of the fish. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork, indicating it's safe to eat.
What if I don't have a BBQ grill or broiler?
You can bake the pike in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes. Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook until done as described.
How should I handle the fish to prevent food contamination?
Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw fish. Use separate knives and cutting boards for raw fish and other ingredients. Clean surfaces with hot, soapy water to avoid cross-contamination.