While lionfish is indeed edible and considered a delicacy in some parts of the world, it is important to take certain precautions when consuming it. Lionfish have venomous spines that can cause mild to severe reactions in humans. However, it is important to properly prepare and cook lionfish to ensure that any potential venom is neutralized. The venomous spines can be removed before cooking, and it is recommended that the fish is thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat. It is also important to only eat lionfish from areas where it is an invasive species and has been sustainably harvested.
Here is a simple recipe for cooking lionfish:
- Ingredients:
- 2 lionfish fillets
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Lemon wedges
- Directions:
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- 2. Rinse the lionfish fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- 3. Season the fillets with salt and pepper to taste. 4. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- 5. Sear the fillets on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are golden brown.
- 6. Transfer the fillets to a baking tray and bake them in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until they are fully cooked.
Serve the lionfish fillets with lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.
Enjoy your lionfish meal, but always be careful when handling the fish to avoid any accidental stings from the spines.
Interested in some more recipes? Check out REEF’s cookbook!
