INTRODUCTION
When it comes to grilling fish, our Select Blends are amazing and make the process simple with all of the herbs and seasonings you need built-in (even fresh citrus). Before our recent enlightenment, we would brush our fish fillets with olive oil then sprinkle the rub on top before placing on the grill. Not any more!
We recently discovered a secret ingredient that can take your grilled fish to a whole new level of flavor and juiciness: mayonnaise. We've done side-by-side testing and let me tell you, once you grill your fish basted with mayonnaise, you'll wonder why anybody would do it any other way.
That's right, this creamy condiment may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of grilling, but it's time to give it a chance. And I hear you way out there in the back... and no, your fish does not taste like mayonnaise after grilling it this way! You'll simply have the most tender, moist, delicious fish you've ever served your family.
In this blog post, we'll explore why mayonnaise makes the best grilled fish and how it can elevate your seafood grilling game.
BENEFITS OF BASTING FISH WITH MAYONNAISE BEFORE GRILLING
- Moisture Retention - One of the biggest challenges when grilling fish is preventing it from drying out. Fish fillets are delicate, and they can easily become overcooked and dry. Mayonnaise, with its rich and creamy texture, acts as a barrier that locks in moisture during the grilling process. The emulsified mixture of eggs, oil, and vinegar in mayonnaise creates a protective layer around the fish, ensuring that it stays tender and juicy.
- Flavor Infusion - Mayonnaise is not just a moisture-locking agent; it's also a fantastic flavor enhancer. Thanks to its creamy consistency, mayonnaise adheres well to the surface of the fish. This means that any seasonings or herbs you add to the mayonnaise will cling to the fish and infuse it with delicious flavors. Whether you prefer a zesty lemon herb mayo or a spicy chipotle mayo, the options are endless, allowing you to customize your grilled fish to your taste with many of the Salted Perfection flavor-infused salts and Select Blends.
- Crispy Exterior - Mayonnaise doesn't just keep the inside of the fish moist; it also helps create a crispy and beautifully caramelized exterior. The oil in mayonnaise aids in browning and crisping up the fish, giving it that appealing grilled texture. This means you can achieve that perfect balance of a moist interior and a slightly crispy crust, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Easy Application - Applying mayonnaise to your fish is a breeze. Simply spread a thin, even layer of mayo on the fish fillets before grilling. You can do this with a brush, your fingers, or even a spoon. Unlike some marinades that require hours of marinating, mayonnaise works its magic in a short amount of time, making it perfect for last-minute grilling sessions or weeknight dinners.
- Versatility - Another reason why mayonnaise is a fantastic choice for grilled fish is its versatility. It pairs well with a wide range of fish varieties, from salmon and trout to tilapia and snapper. Whether you prefer mild or bold flavors, you can easily tailor your mayonnaise-based marinade to complement the specific fish you're grilling.
CONCLUSION
Incorporating mayonnaise into your grilled fish recipes may seem unconventional, but the results will speak for themselves. With its ability to retain moisture, infuse flavor, create a crispy exterior, and offer ease of application, mayonnaise is a game-changer when it comes to grilling fish. So, the next time you fire up the grill, don't forget to reach for that jar of mayo and unlock the secrets to the best-grilled fish you've ever tasted. Your taste buds will thank you!
