Mahimahi (Coryphaena hippurus) is commonly known as dolphin (not the mammal), dolphinfish, or dorado, in other places. It's an open ocean fish found in seas around the world. When a mahimahi takes the hook, its colors are brilliant blue, silver and yellow. These fade in a flash when the fish dies. Large schools of mahimahi are common around ocean flotsam and off fish aggregation devices or FAD's.
About 80% of the commercial mahimahi caught in Hawaii are by local fisherman using trolling methods. Hawaii's mahimahi is a highly regarded product which is best eaten when fresh.
When I cook mahimahi I like to bake it in a hot oven, 400 degrees, for 20 minutes. Preheat the oven while preparing this recipe.
Mix up some:
- mayonnaise
- fresh pressed garlic
- fresh chopped dill
- fresh or dried tarragon leaves
- spoonful of pickled capers
You can use single serving fillets, or a whole slab of fish, whichever you prefer. Place the fish in an ovenproof dish, like a glass or ceramic casserole or metal pan. Spread this mixture all over the fish so it's got a nice coating. Pop it into the hot oven and it will be done in 20 minutes, or maybe a little longer if you had a really big slab for the whole family.
Serve with rice and a fluffy salad, and you have a healthy and nutritious meal.
This is so easy and so delicious, you will be surprised. If you are lucky enough to get some really fresh fish, this dish will always impress those you serve it to. If you don't have fresh herbs available, you can fake it with whatever you have handy. I have used basil, but it's a little overpowering. Dill and tarragon are subtle and go well together. I have also used this method for Ahi (yellow fin tuna) and it's pretty good too.
Why go to Mama's Fish House when you can eat like this at home?
Here on Maui we are lucky to know people who fish and we can sometimes get mahimahi right from them. Other times we can buy fresh fish at our local market in Paia, and sometimes even at Costco.
If you enjoy eating fresh fish, you might want to move to Maui where it's available year round. For more info on Maui homes for sale - call The Hunter - Georgina M. Hunter R(S)- 808 283-0635 - Paia Maui Hawaii 96779
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