Succulent BBQ Boiled Whole Hake – Simple & Delicious!
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat5gram
Protein35gram
Ingredients
- Whole hake fish (fresh, about 1 kg)1 piece
- Water (for boiling)3 liters
- Salt1 tbsp
- Bay leaves2 pieces
- Black peppercorns1 tsp
- Lemon (sliced)1 piece
- Fresh parsley (chopped)2 tbsp
- Olive oil (for drizzling)2 tbsp
Discover the simple and foolproof way to boil whole hake on a BBQ, producing tender and juicy fish infused with smoky flavors. This recipe uses basic ingredients common in supermarkets and standard kitchen tools. The process ensures safe cooking with an internal temperature target of 63°C (145°F), making your seafood safe and delightful. The approximate cost of ingredients for this dish is around $15, €14, £12, and ₹1200, and the total caloric content per serving is about 250 kcal, making it a healthy choice suitable for pescatarian diets. Difficulty is easy, and total cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the fish
1Rinse the whole hake under cold running water to remove any scales or debris. Pat dry with paper towels. This step ensures cleanliness and safety by removing any surface contaminants.
Prepare boiling water with aromatics
2In a large pot, add 3 liters of water. Add salt, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and lemon slices to the water. Bring it to a boil over high heat; this will infuse flavor into the fish during cooking.
Boil the whole hake
3Once the water boils, carefully place the whole hake into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium to maintain a gentle boil and cook the fish for about 15-18 minutes. Cooking time depends on the size of the fish. A good rule of thumb is about 10 minutes per inch of thickness at the thickest part.
Check the internal temperature
4Using a food thermometer, check the internal temperature of the hake in the thickest part of the fish. It should reach 63°C (145°F) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. The flesh should be opaque and separate easily with a fork.
Drain and season the fish
5Carefully remove the hake from the pot using a slotted spoon or fish spatula and let it drain. Place it on a serving plate, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for freshness and added flavor.
Cooking Tips
1Use a fresh whole hake with clear eyes and shiny skin for the best taste and texture.
2Avoid overcooking to prevent dry fish; monitor the cooking time and temperature carefully.
3You can substitute bay leaves with dill or thyme for different aromatic profiles.
4To avoid cross-contamination, use separate utensils and cutting boards when handling raw fish and other ingredients.
5Serve with boiled potatoes or fresh salad for a complete meal.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or stockpot
- Food thermometer
- Slotted spoon or fish spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Serving plate
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Whole hake fish (~$10): Look for fresh fish with clear, shiny eyes and firm flesh.
- [ ] Bay leaves (~$0.50): Choose dried leaves that are fragrant and free from mold.
- [ ] Black peppercorns (~$0.50): Freshly ground pepper enhances flavor.
- [ ] Lemon (~$0.50): Pick firm, bright lemons without blemishes.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (~$1): Look for vibrant, crisp leaves.
- [ ] Olive oil (~$2 for small bottle): Extra virgin olive oil adds the best flavor.
- [ ] Salt (you might already have this)
Total estimated cost: approx. $15
FAQ
Can I boil hake whole without a thermometer?
Yes, but it’s best to check the fish’s flesh visually; it should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. However, using a food thermometer ensures food safety with the correct internal temperature.
Can I use frozen hake for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before boiling to ensure even cooking.
How do I avoid the fish falling apart during boiling?
Handle the fish gently using a slotted spoon or spatula. Keeping the boil gentle helps maintain the fish's shape.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the boiling water?
Absolutely! Dill, thyme, or a few garlic cloves can be added to the water to enhance flavor.
Is boiled whole hake safe to eat?
Yes, if it reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F), the fish is fully cooked and safe to eat. Following proper handling and cooking practices minimizes food safety risks.