Mahi Mahi is a type of sweet tasting, ray-finned fish which survives in the tropical and sub-tropical waters worldwide. This fish is alternatively known by names like lampuka, lampuga, calitos, raking, Dorado or maverikos, and dolphinfish. However, its name often leads to the confusion of it being a dolphin, which is not true as dolphin is a mammal.
This fish is typically found in the areas of the South Pacific, the Caribbean, and the South East Asia. It is generally preferred for its sweet taste, white flesh and short maturation period. This fish has gained high popularity in recent years because a single fish can weigh 20 pounds and can become larger.
Etymology
Its name is derived from the Hawaiian language and it is often spelled as mahi-mahi, mahimahi, etc. The name of the fish translates to "strong" which signifies its fighting ability and survival instincts. Their fighting ability attracts lots of sports fisherman across the world.
Buying Tips
The fresh mahi mahi emanate good smell and its flesh slightly gives in when pressed with fingers. After few moments, the fish springs back to shape. Translucent and moist fish fillets are ideal to cook.
The fish is sold in the form of steaks or fillets and are available both frozen and fresh.
Tasting
The fish tastes less fishy than any other known fish and is prized highly due to its exceptional taste in the US, Caribbean countries and Japan. The fish is used as a good substitute for swordfish in recipes which demand the same. Mahi Mahi is added to fish tacos and ceviche and is served after seasoning with lemon juice or lime which helps to bring out its best flavor.
Preparation Methods
The secret to lampuka cooking is to abstain from overcooking it. The fillets are strong and moist with sweet mild flavor. Following are some of the common methods of preparing this fish.
Mahi Mahi Recipes
Storage
For best results, the fish is always stored under refrigeration. It is advisable to clean the fish, rinse it and dry it prior to storage. The fish will deteriorate if allowed to remain in its own juices. It is better to place it on a cake rack which should be kept immersed in water containing ice. The mahi mahi is wrapped nicely and kept in the coldest part of the refrigerator. It can remain fresh for about 2 days. It is thawed by leaving under running cold water or by changing the place within refrigerator.
Food Safety Concerns
The fish is vulnerable to ciguatera poisoning. Ciguatera is a type of foodborne illness which is caused by eating fishes that survive in the reef. Their flesh is sometimes contaminated with the toxins generated by algae surviving in the subtropical and tropical waters.
Nutrition
A 4 ounce portion of mahi mahi packs 100 calories with 18.5 grams of protein, 15 mg of calcium, 1 g total fat, 1.3 grams of iron, 416 mg potassium, 143 mg of phosphorus, 180 IU vitamin A and 88 mg sodium.