How to cook ribbonfish? 3 easy methods

There are various ways to cook ribbonfish, each offering a unique culinary experience. The most common way is to fry it.

What is Ribbonfish?

Ribbonfish, also known as the beltfish or cutlassfish, is a unique and flavorful fish that can be found in various parts of the world. It belongs to the Trichiuridae family and is known for its long, slender body and distinctive ribbon-like appearance. Ribbonfish can grow up to several feet in length and are primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters, such as the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions.

Catching ribbonfish can be a thrilling experience for anglers. They are often caught using various fishing techniques, including trolling, casting, or jigging. These fish are known for their strong resistance and swift swimming ability, making them a challenging catch for fishing enthusiasts. When hooked, they display a remarkable acrobatic performance, leaping out of the water and putting up a good fight.

The appearance of ribbonfish is quite remarkable. They have a sleek body with a silvery coloration that reflects light, giving them a shimmering appearance underwater. Their elongated body is covered with small scales, and they have a long, toothy jaw filled with sharp teeth. Ribbonfish are truly a sight to behold, and their unique shape makes them stand out among other fish species.

How does Ribbonfish taste like? When it comes to flavor, ribbonfish offers a delicious and delicate taste that seafood lovers can savor. Its flesh is firm and white, with a mildly sweet flavor that is reminiscent of other popular white fish varieties. The meat has a tender texture, making it a versatile ingredient in various culinary preparations.

Ribbonfish Nutrition and Health Benefits

Ribbonfish not only delights the taste buds but also provides numerous nutritional benefits. It is a low-calorie fish that is rich in protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats contribute to heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Ribbonfish is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

The consumption of ribbonfish can offer several health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids present in the fish are known to reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and support brain health. Additionally, the high protein content aids in muscle development and repair, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking to maintain a healthy diet.

How to Cook Ribbonfish?

There are various ways to cook ribbonfish, each offering a unique culinary experience. Here are three delicious recipes to try:

Fried Ribbonfish

This is the most popular and very simple way to consume this kind of fish, which is quite crispy thanks to its superthin bones that will dissolve partly and become edible after frying.

To make fried ribbonfish, there is only 2 steps that take you only 15 minutes:

• Preparation: Start by cleaning and scaling the fish, removing any entrails. Cut the ribbonfish into manageable pieces and season them with salt, pepper and, ginger and chilli (optional).

• Fry ribbonfish: In a frying pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the ribbonfish until golden brown on both sides. Serve with a favorite sauce for a delightful crispy dish, or eat it with cooked rice or vegetables.

Crispy Ribbonfish

For this recipe, the difference from the above recipe is the fish pieces is coated by flour, eggwash and breadcrumbs.

After seasoning, dip the fish pieces in beaten egg and then coat them with flour, then another layer of beaten egg, then breadcrumbs. Fry the ribbonfish until golden brown on both sides. Serve with a squeeze of lemon and tartar sauce for a delightful crispy side dish.

Fried Dry Ribbonfish

Dry ribbon fish is not only a method to preserve the fish for a longer period but also ingredient for a highly enticing dish.

• Preparation: To make this flavorful dish, marinate the ribbonfish with a pinch of pepper. Don’t season with salt, because dry ribbonfish is originally quite salty.
• In frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the dry ribbonfish to the hot oil and fry until crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Now, it’s time to enjoy your perfectly fried dry ribbonfish. The crispy exterior provides a satisfying and flavorful crunch. Serve it alongside cooked rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables, and a glass of beer for a complete and satisfying meal.