Shark Fillet in Foil

This dish transforms a rare ingredient, shark, into a delightful culinary experience. When freshly caught shark isn't available, frozen shark works well, offering a unique flavor reminiscent of crab and squid. Wrapped in foil, this dish preserves the delicate taste and texture of the fish, while ensuring a foolproof cooking method. The simplicity of the preparation allows the shark’s nuanced flavor to shine without overpowering it with excessive seasoning. A hint of lemon and dill accentuates the seafood's natural qualities, and precise cooking time guarantees tenderness. Complementary flavors and a touch of heat from chili can also enhance this meal for those who enjoy spicier tastes. Cooking shark in foil is forgiving and accessible to home chefs, ensuring that even beginners can confidently prepare it. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, offering a sophisticated dish that is surprisingly easy to make. Enjoy this unique culinary adventure with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 medium frozen shark fillet, thawed
• 1 lemon, sliced thinly
• Small bunch of fresh dill

Seasonings and Spices:

• Sea salt
• Lemon pepper

Other:

• Aluminium foil

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation: 10 minutes
  • Cooking: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Thaw the Shark: Begin by thoroughly thawing the shark fillet. You might note that its aroma resembles that of squid or crab rather than traditional fish.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) and allow it to preheat, ensuring a steady cooking temperature.
3. Prepare Seasonings: Pat the shark fillet dry using paper towels. In a small bowl, mix sea salt with lemon pepper.
4. Season the Fillet: Lightly season the shark fillet on both sides with the prepared salt and lemon pepper mixture.
5. Add Fresh Dill: Finely chop the dill and sprinkle it liberally over the fillet to enhance the delicate flavors.
6. Arrange Lemon Slices: Place thin lemon slices on top of the shark fillet, ensuring even coverage for balanced flavor.
7. Prepare the Foil: Tear a sizable piece of aluminum foil and lay it flat on your workspace.
8. Wrap the Fillet: Position the shark fillet in the center of the foil. Begin wrapping it carefully, folding the foil into a packet with seams facing upwards.
9. Secure the Packet: Ensure the foil is tightly sealed to prevent any juices from escaping during cooking.
10. Optional Spice: For those who prefer a bit of heat, add two small slices of chili before sealing the foil.
11. Place in Oven: Transfer the foil packet onto a baking tray and carefully place it in the preheated oven.
12. Bake Time: Let the fish bake for roughly 15 minutes. Adjust the time slightly according to the size and thickness of the fillet.
13. Check for Doneness: Remove the packet from the oven and carefully open the foil to observe the cooking progress.
14. Testing: The fillet should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork, indicating it is perfectly cooked.
15. Serve Immediately: Transfer the cooked fillet to a serving dish, discarding the lemon slices if desired.
16. Complementing Flavor: Garnish with extra fresh dill or a few squeezes of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
17. Extension Options: Serve as-is or pair with fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
18. Rest Before Serving: Allow the fillet to rest for a minute, locking in moisture and flavor.
19. Final Touches: Garnish your plate with extra dill or a wedge of lemon for visual appeal.
20. Enjoy the Meal: Experience the unique taste of shark fillet, complemented by citrus and herbs.

Tips

• Condiments: Experiment with lime zest or fresh parsley as alternative flavor complements.
• Sauce Suggestion: A side of creamy dill or tartar sauce can enhance the seafood profile.
• Spice Level: Adjust chili quantity based on your spice preference.
• Cooking Assurance: Don’t skip preheating your oven to ensure even cooking.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 2g

Variations

• Herb Alternatives: Substitute dill with basil or cilantro for different herb profiles.
• Vegan Option: Use the same spices and herbs on zucchini or eggplant slices wrapped in foil.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
• Accompany with roasted potatoes or a light, refreshing cucumber salad.
• A side of steamed asparagus or green beans complements the flavors well.

Best Places

• The Seafood Bar - A chic restaurant known for its extensive seafood menu. Location: Van Baerlestraat 5, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Marea - Famed for its inventive fish and shellfish dishes. Location: 240 Central Park South, New York, USA.
• Estiatorio Milos - Offers a refined setting with focus on simple, fresh ingredients. Location: 125 W 55th St, New York, USA.
• Le Bernardin - Traditional French seafood in an elegant setting. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
• Langford Wine Bar & Kitchen - Features fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy atmosphere. Location: 22 Langford Rd, London, UK.
• Kinokawa - Japanese-inspired seafood with a minimalist approach. Location: 43W 10th St, New York, USA.
• The Fish Market - Popular for market-fresh seafood dishes in a vibrant setting. Location: Fish Quay, North Shields, UK.
• Ocean Prime - Known for its sophisticated spaces and gourmet seafood. Location: 2101 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, USA.
• Bluewater Grill - Celebrates sustainable fish dishes with a contemporary twist. Location: 670 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, USA.
• La Mar Cebichería Peruana - Offers a unique twist on traditional seafood with Peruvian flavors. Location: Pier 1.5 Embarcadero, San Francisco, USA.