*Lobster rolls are a summer favorite, but the high cost of lobster can leave many seafood lovers searching for an alternative. Enter monkfish, often dubbed the “poor man’s lobster.”
While not as visually appealing as some fish, monkfish has a firm, tender texture and a sweet, mild flavor that closely mirrors the taste of lobster, making it an ideal substitute for lobster rolls, per The Tasting Table.
Monkfish, a groundfish that lives on the ocean floor, has gained attention from chefs like Marcus Samuelsson and Julia Child for its unique qualities. It’s often a hit with beginner cooks because of its versatility and ease of preparation. For a budget-friendly lobster roll, all you need to do is season the monkfish with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning, then sauté the fillets in butter for about four to six minutes per side, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F.
The price difference is striking. While monkfish fillets may cost around $8.88 per pound at Whole Foods, lobster tail is priced at $53.28 per pound, making monkfish six times cheaper. Beyond the cost savings, monkfish is a more sustainable option as its population remains stable, unlike other overfished species.
To assemble your monkfish lobster roll, you can use classic ingredients like mayonnaise, lemon juice, and celery salt, or go for a garlic aioli for extra umami. For a lighter, Connecticut-style twist, toss the monkfish in a butter sauce instead of mayo, with fresh tarragon and lemon juice, and garnish with chives (see the full recipe here).
Scroll to continue reading
Monkfish offers a delicious, affordable way to enjoy lobster rolls without breaking the bank!
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Chef Shares Tips for Crispy Fried Fish in an Air Fryer
Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
