Crispy and Savory Grilled Gizzard Shad Recipe
The Ultimate Delicacy to Awaken Your Appetite: Tender and Rich Grilled Gizzard Shad
Introducing a simple home-style grilled gizzard shad recipe, a seasonal autumn delicacy. When fresh gizzard shad is sprinkled with coarse sea salt and grilled, it becomes crispy on the outside, moist on the inside, and exceptionally savory. Its simple preparation yields a deep flavor, making it perfect for entertaining guests or for a special meal. Enhance the taste with a squeeze of fresh lemon over the freshly grilled fish.
Main Ingredients
- 6 prepared gizzard shad
- Sweet rice flour, as needed
- Vegetable oil, generously
Seasoning & Garnish
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
- 1/2 lemon
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
- 1/2 lemon
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly wash the fresh gizzard shad under running water. It’s important to remove the scales and fins; using kitchen scissors is much easier than a knife. After cleaning the fish, pat it completely dry with paper towels. Make 2-3 shallow cuts along the body of the fish to help the seasoning penetrate. Sprinkle coarse sea salt evenly on both sides of the prepared shad and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step reduces any fishy odor and enhances the umami flavor.
Step 2
Lightly spread some sweet rice flour on a plate or tray. Place the seasoned gizzard shad onto the flour and coat both sides evenly. Coating the fish thinly with sweet rice flour helps to retain its moisture while grilling, ensuring a tender interior, and contributes to a crispier exterior. Avoid applying too thick a layer, as it can make the fish taste pasty; a thin coating is best.
Step 3
Heat a frying pan over medium-low heat and add a generous amount of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the flour-coated gizzard shad into the pan. Once one side is golden brown and cooked, flip the fish and cook the other side until equally golden brown. Tilting the pan occasionally and basting the fish with the hot oil will help it cook evenly and achieve a crispier texture. Depending on the size of the fish, grill each side for about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4
Arrange the beautifully grilled gizzard shad on a serving plate. For garnish, wash the lemon and slice it thinly or cut it into wedges, placing them alongside the fish. The savory flavor of the grilled gizzard shad is perfectly complemented by the lemon’s refreshing acidity, which cuts through any richness and elevates the overall taste. Enjoy immediately while warm for the best experience. You can also serve with a soy sauce and wasabi dipping sauce if desired.
