Nothing quite says summertime like the smell of haddock on the grill. Hot, smoky and simply delicious, haddock is a great way to enjoy seasonal seafood in a whole new way. For those wanting to level up their grilling game this season, learning how to properly cook haddock on your outdoor grill is sure to take mealtime one momentous step forward.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know – from choosing the right ingredients and prepping your fish for perfection, all the way through serving with both flavor and flair! Dive into grilled haddock just in time for summer – it’s time to fire up that grill and get cooking!
What is Haddock?
Haddock is a type of fish that’s closely related to cod and pollock, with a mild flavor and light flakey texture. It’s commonly found in the cold waters off Iceland, Norway, Scotland and the East Coast of North America, making it readily available for those looking for sustainable seafood options. Haddock has been enjoyed for centuries, and its versatility is perfect for the creative cook. It’s simple enough to enjoy as-is with just a bit of olive oil, lemon juice and herbs. But it also stands up well to heavier sauces like cilantro pesto or garlic butter – whatever your palette desires!
Nutrion Fact of Haddock (According USDA)
In 100g of cooked haddock, you’re getting:
- Calories: 69 kcal
- Protein: 16.3g
- Total lipid (fat):0.45g
- Total fat (NLEA): 0.32g
- Potassium: 286mg
- Cholesterol: 54mg
- Vitamins and minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium and Iron
Health Benefits of Haddock
The high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids found in haddock fish oil can play an important role in promoting good health. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the health benefits of fish oils and their potential roles in preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
One study found that eating a diet high in haddock fish oil resulted in a reduction in the risk of heart disease. The study participants who ate the most haddock fish oil lowered their risk of heart disease by 21% compared to those who ate the least. The study also found that the antioxidant properties of haddock fish oil played a major role in protecting against heart disease.
Another study found thathaddock fish oil can be helpful in preventing cancer. The study participants who supplemented their diets with haddock fish oil saw a 30% decrease in the risk of developing cancerous tumors during the trial period. The anti-inflammatory properties ofhaddockfish oil were also responsible for reducing the risk of cancer development.
Furthermore,haddockfishoil can help reduce symptoms of arthritis. A 2007 study conducted by researchers from Rutgers University suggested thathaddockfishoil can be beneficial for treating osteoarthritis (a type of arthritis caused by degeneration or weariness of cartilage). In this trial,participants supplemented their diet with either 3 gram doses/day EPA or DHA (haddock was one of the fish used in the study) and experienced a reduction in their arthritis-related symptoms.
Haddock on Grill – What Does Taste Like?
Regardless of how it’s prepared, grilled haddock always has a savory flavor that comes from the grill.
There are several factors that contribute to this flavor. The most significant is the fat content of the fish. Grilled haddock contains more monounsaturated fats than saturated fats which makes for a rich and delicious taste. Other ingredients that make up this flavor profile include smoke, garlic, and ginger. All of these flavors work together to create an intense aroma and hearty texture when eaten. If you’re looking for a light and flaky flavor, grilled haddock is the perfect choice.
Benefits of Grilling Haddock
Grilling haddock is such a versatile and delicious way to enjoy fish. Here are five reasons why you should give it a try:
- Grilled haddock is incredibly healthy. As with any type of seafood, grilled haddock is full of nutrients and antioxidants that help protect your body against disease. In addition, the combination of smoke and herbs give the fish a really delicious flavor that will fill you up without giving you all the calories of eating a regular piece of fish.
- Grilling haddock is quick and easy. All you need is some seasoning, some fresh herbs, and some quality cooking oil or butter to get started grilling this lovely white fish. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner tonight or just want to enjoy some seafood for lunch tomorrow, grilling haddock is an excellent option!
- Grilled haddock tastes great with any type of salad or side dish! Not only does it pair perfectly with basic greens like arugula or romaine lettuce, but variety is definitely the spice of life, right? Try pairing grilled haddock with roasted red potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a fun change of pace!
- Grilled haddock can be prepared in many different ways so there’s sure to be something thatsuits your taste bud(s). Some people love their fish cooked well done while others prefer theirs slightly more tenderized – there’s no wrong way to enjoy grilled haddock!
- Grilling haddock helps maintain its health benefits! By cooking the fish on a high heat and with minimal interference, you’re helping to preserve all of the vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids that make this white fish so good for you. Plus, it will keep your meal lean and healthy!
Overall, haddock is an incredibly versatile fish that can be cooked in many different ways. It’s full of nutrients and antioxidants that make it a great choice for maintaining good health – plus, it tastes delicious! Whether you’re grilling it or baking it, haddock is a healthy option that you can feel good about eating!
How to Choose Haddock for Grilling?
If you’re considering grilling fish this summer, haddock may be the perfect option. Haddock is beautiful and delicate-flavored, making it a great choice for both novice and expert grill masters alike. Here are four tips for choosing haddock for your next barbecue:
- Look for a robust coloration – haddock should be a deep red or orange, indicating that it is fresh. If it is refrigerated, be sure to take it out of the fridge several hours before cooking in order to bring down its temperature and extend its life.
- Pay attention to scales – haddock should have uniform and tight scales that don’t stick out abnormally. If they are dull or ragged, the fish is likely not fresh and may have been frozen or in some other type of preservation process.
- Gently brush off any slime or dirt from the fish – if there’s anything on top of the scales, gently rub it off so that you can see the beautiful flesh underneath. This will help you determine whether you want to cook the fish immediately or wait until it’s slightly firmer to avoid overcooking it (remember: overcooking will make those delicate flavors completely disappear).
- Finally, smell the fish – if there’s an unpleasant odor present (like ammonia), odds are high that yourhaddock isn’t as fresh as you would like it to be. Letting your nose be your guide will ensure that you get the best-tasting fish for your barbecue.
Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to choose a great haddock fillet for grilling! Enjoy!
Best Temperature to Cook Haddock
Haddock should be cooked at a relatively low temperature, around 350°F (177°C). This will ensure that the fish stays juicy and flaky while also allowing it to cook fully. Additionally, make sure that your grill is well-oiled before you begin cooking so that the fish won’t stick!
How to Prepare Haddock for Grilling?
Chances are, you’re probably familiar with preparing other types of fish for the grill, but haddock might be a little tougher to work with. Here are a few tips on how to prepare haddock for grilling:
First and foremost, make sure that your haddock is properly cleaned. Take off any scales and remove any unpleasant smell or fleshy bits. Once it’s clean, season it with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add herbs and spices such as rosemary or thyme if desired. Make sure the seasoning is properly distributed before cooking by rubbing it into the flesh of the fish.
Next, prepare your grill. Make sure it is hot enough for grilling and that the coals have burned down to a medium heat. If you’re using gas, set it to high or medium-high.
Then, rub some oil or butter onto the haddock fillet before placing it on the grill. This will help keep your fish from sticking and will give it a nice, crispy finish. Grill for five to seven minutes each side, or until the haddock is cooked through and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Step to Cook Haddock on Grill
Once your haddock is prepared, it’s time to cook it on the grill. Here’s what you need to do:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the haddock onto it.
- Place the haddock skin side down on the hot grates and leave it there for five minutes. This will help it develop a nice, crispy skin that will keep the fish from sticking to the grill.
- Turn the haddock over and cook for another four to six minutes until cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when you can easily flake it with a fork.
- Remove from the grill and enjoy. Serve with your favorite sides or sauces, such as lemon butter or tartar sauce.
How long does it take to Grill Haddock?
On average, it will take around 10 minutes to grill a haddock fillet on a medium-high heat grill. Cook time may vary depending on the thickness of your fish and the temperature of your grill – thicker fillets will require more cooking time while thinner ones can be cooked in a shorter amount of time. Additionally, make sure you monitor the fish while it’s cooking and turn off the heat once it has cooked through. Overcooking your haddock will result in dry, tough meat that lacks flavor.
How to Resting the Haddock?
If you have just grilled up a haddock, be sure to rest it before serving. Here is how to do it:
- Cut the fish into diagonal slices against the grain and place them on a plate.
- Drizzle with some olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
- Cover the plate with a sheet of foil and allow the fish to rest for five minutes before serving.
This will help ensure that your haddock stays moist, tender, and flavorful. Enjoy!
How to Know if Haddock is Done?
In general, when a panfish starts to flake and peel off its skin, it is finished. To check if a panfish is done, use one of the following techniques:
-Look for the backbone near the spine of the fish. When you touch it, the backbone should feel firm and hard. If it is soft or broken, then the fish is not yet done.
-Slice a thin piece from near the spine of the fish and see if it falls apart when pressed between your fingers. If it does not fall apart easily, then the fish is still raw.
-Hold one end of a skewer parallel to one side of the fish and press down gently on the opposite end. If there are no signs of resistance after several seconds, then the fish is done.
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure to oil or butter your haddock before grilling. This will help prevent sticking and give it a nice, crispy finish.
- To avoid overcooking, use a thermometer if possible to check the internal temperature of the fish as it cooks. Haddock is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Cook haddock on medium-high heat for the best results, as this will help it cook through without burning.
- Allow the cooked haddock to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help retain moisture and flavor.
- If you don’t want to grill the haddock, it can also be cooked in a skillet or oven. Follow the same tips as above for cooking times and techniques.
- Serve with your favorite sauces such as tartar sauce, lemon butter, or remoulade to enhance the flavor of the fish.
- For added texture and flavor, top the finished dish with your favorite herbs, nuts, or seeds.
What to Serve with Haddock?
Haddock is a versatile fish that can be served with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some ideas for accompaniments:
–Potatoes: Roasted, mashed, or boiled potatoes make an excellent side dish for haddock.
–Salad: Serve your grilled haddock with a fresh garden salad or a colorful bean salad for a light and refreshing option.
–Vegetables: Grilled or steamed vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, or green beans pair nicely with haddock.
–Rice: White or brown rice is an easy side dish that goes well with all types of fish dishes.
–Sauces: Top your haddock with a sauce of your choice such as tartar sauce, remoulade, or lemon butter.
–Bread: Serve the fish with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce and juices.
–Fruit: Fresh fruit like berries, sliced oranges, or mangoes can be served as a light dessert after the meal.
–Herbs and spices: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, basil, cilantro, or thyme on top of your haddock for an extra boost of flavor. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder, black pepper, or paprika to taste.
Marinades and Sauces for Haddock
There are a variety of marinades and sauces that can be used with haddock. Some popular choices include:
Rosemary and garlic marinade:
Combine 2 tablespoons rosemary leaves, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, and enough olive oil or other vegetable oil to make a slurry in a bowl. Stir in 1/2 cup white wine vinegar, then season to taste with salt and pepper. Pour the mixture over the fish and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Honey-mustard Marinade:
Mix together 1 cup Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup honey, 3 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley leaves, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish. Coat fish evenly with the marinade, then place it in a refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Soy sauce Marinade:
Combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 teaspoons rice vinegar,1 teaspoon granulated sugar,1 tablespoon sesame oil or other vegetable oil,1 clove minced garlic,and 1 teaspoon grated gingerroot in a bowl. Mix well and pour over haddock. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 12 hours.
Lemon-butter Sauce:
Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 2 teaspoons minced garlic and 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice. Simmer for about 3 minutes, then add 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley leaves and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve the sauce over the cooked haddock.
These are just a few ideas for marinades and sauces that can be used with haddock. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination!
Common Mistake When Grill Haddock
Grill haddock is a popular fish that is excellent for dinner. However, there are some common mistakes that people make when cooking this fish.
- The first mistake that people make is overcooking it. Overcooking can make the flesh dry and tough.
- The second mistake that people make is not brushing it with oil before grilling it. This will cause the fish to stick to the grill and also add flavorless smoke to the food.
- A third mistake that people make is seasoning the fish incorrectly. Often, people put too much salt or pepper on their grilled haddock, which can ruin its flavor and texture.
- Finally, one of the most common mistakes that people make when grilling haddock is not using a hot enough grill or temperatures are not high enough to properly cook the fish. If these mistakes are made, then the fish will likely come out dry and undercooked.
To avoid these mistakes, it is important to make sure that the grill is hot enough and to brush the fish with oil before grilling. It is also important to not over season or overcook the haddock. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy perfectly grilled haddock every time!
Some Recipes with Haddock
Grilled Haddock with Lemon-Caper Sauce
Ingredient:
– 2 haddock fillets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– Lemon-Caper Sauce (recipe follows)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Rub the haddock with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper.
- Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once.
- Serve with lemon-caper sauce.
Lemon-Caper Sauce
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon capers
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the capers and garlic and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve over grilled haddock.
Haddock with Tomato-Herb Relish
Ingredients:
– 2 haddock fillets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– Tomato-Herb Relish (recipe follows)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Rub the haddock with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper.
- Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once.
- Serve with tomato-herb relish.
Tomato-Herb Relish
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
– 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the tomato, parsley, and basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and mix until evenly blended.
- Serve over grilled haddock.
Haddock with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Ingredients:
– 2 haddock fillets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– Creamy Mustard Sauce (recipe follows)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Rub the haddock with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper.
- Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once.
- Serve with creamy mustard sauce.
Creamy Mustard Sauce
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
- Serve over grilled haddock.
How do I Store Grilled Haddock?
Cooked haddock should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped securely in plastic wrap. It will keep for up to three days in the refrigerator. If you want to freeze the cooked fish, it can be kept for up to three months. To reheat, thaw the fish overnight in the fridge and then gently reheat in the microwave or on the stove-top.
Related Articles: How Long to Grill Trout in Foil?
FAQ
What are the guidelines for grilling haddock?
When grilling haddock, remember to follow these guidelines:
-Wash the fish well before cooking. Soaking in a salt water bath will clean any dirt or contaminants off the fish. Pat dry with paper towels.
-Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the fish. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
-Avoid overcooking the fish – it should be slightly pink in the center. Fish that is overcooked will be tough and chewy.
Is grilled haddock healthy?
Yes, grilled haddock is a very healthy option. Haddock is low in calories and saturated fat and high in lean protein and essential vitamins and minerals like selenium, phosphorus, and B-vitamins. It’s also an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids which are important for heart health. Grilling the fish instead of frying it is a healthier option as it adds less fat and calories. For an even healthier alternative, use olive oil to brush the fish before grilling.
Is haddock hard to cook?
Haddock is a type of fish that is commonly used in many types of cooking, whether it be fried, boiled, or steamed. Many people find haddock to be an easy fish to cook, since its flesh does not tend to stick to the pan or grill. However, some people do find haddock to be a bit hard to cook, as its flesh can be a bit tough. If you are struggling with cooking haddock and would like some assistance, feel free to reach out to a professional chef for guidance.
Do you need oil to grill Haddock?
Most people think that you need oil to grill Haddock, which is not always the case. In fact, using a dry erase grill without oil can produce great results. However, if you want to guarantee that your fish is cooked through and caramelized on the outside, then you will need some type of oil.
The best option is to use a vegetable based cooking oil such as avocado or sunflower seed oil. If you don’t have either of these oils on hand, then hydrogenated vegetable oils such as margarine are also good options. Never use vegetable shortening or lard when cooking fish; they tend to be too oily and will give your dish an unpleasant flavor.
How do you keep Haddock moist on the grill?
The key to keeping Haddock moist on the grill is to pre-cool it before grilling. Cooling the fish quickly will help keep its delicate flesh from drying out and becoming tough. You can also try arranging the fish on a wire rack or placing it in a baking dish before grilling. Some people also like to season their grilled Haddock with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking.
Do you need foil to grill Haddock?
No, you don’t need to use foil when grilling Haddock. In fact, many people prefer to cook the fish directly on the grill grate instead of using foil as this results in a more even cook and better taste. However, if you do want to use foil then make sure that it is placed underneath the fish rather than over the top, as this will help keep the fish moist. Additionally, adding some butter or oil to the foil can also help add flavor and moisture to your grilled Haddock.
How long can you store cooked Haddock?
Cooked Haddock should be consumed within two days if stored in the refrigerator. If it is frozen, it should be used within six months. When storing cooked Haddock, make sure that it is wrapped in an airtight container or bag and stored at a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. If the fish is not consumed within this time frame, it should be discarded.
For optimal quality, make sure to cook Haddock on the same day that it is purchased. This will ensure the best flavor and texture, as well as reduce the risk of spoilage or foodborne illness.
Is grilled Haddock good for leftovers?
Grilled Haddock can be a great choice for leftovers! To make sure that your leftover Haddock stays fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Leftover grilled Haddock can also be added to salads, sandwiches, or tacos for a quick and delicious meal.
Conclusion
Grilling Haddock as a summer meal is a fantastic way to enjoy seafood without having to break the bank or spend a lot of time prepping. It’s an easy, affordable and accessible meal choice that can help you experience different flavors while still creating delicious meals. For those looking for a new healthy way to spice up their summer menu, Haddock on the Grill is definitely worth trying out.
From different marinades to optimal heat settings and times, there are many recipes that offer some variation of this dish for all types of eaters and tastebuds. So why not create your own unique take on Haddock on the Grill?
We challenge you to mix it up with marinades, seasonings and accompaniments, experiment with cooking temperatures and dishes – the possibilities are endless! After all, it’s the perfect opportunity for your family and friends to try something new together.
Thanks for reading!
References:
I’m Calvert Carlson, and I’m a barbecue chef. I’ve been blogging about my recipes for magazines and online cooking publications for years now. My expertise is smoking meat and grilling recipes, and people often ask me for tips.
I love to cook outdoors on my smoker or grill – there’s just something about the taste of smoked or grilled meat that can’t be beat.
Thanks for reading!