How To Cook Walleye On The Grill

How to Cook Walleye on the Grill: A Delicious Summer Recipe

Grilling walleye is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicate, flaky white fish. Its mild flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of seasonings and accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for your summer grilling adventures. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring perfectly cooked walleye every time.

Preparing Your Walleye for Grilling

Before you even think about firing up the grill, proper preparation is key to delicious grilled walleye. Here's what you need to do:

1. Selecting the Right Walleye:

• Freshness is paramount: Choose walleye fillets that are firm to the touch, with bright, clear eyes (if whole). Avoid any with a strong fishy odor.
• Size matters: For grilling, fillets around 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick are ideal. Thicker fillets may require longer cooking times and might dry out.

2. Pat it Dry:

• Moisture is the enemy: Once you've chosen your fillets, thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent proper searing on the grill.

3. Marinating (Optional but Recommended):

• Flavor boost: Marinating adds incredible flavor. A simple lemon-herb marinade or a spicy Cajun rub can transform your walleye. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator.

Grilling Your Walleye to Perfection

Now for the fun part! Here's a step-by-step guide to grilling walleye like a pro:

1. Preheat Your Grill:

• Medium-high heat is best: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Clean the grates well to prevent sticking.

2. Oil the Grates:

• Prevent sticking: Lightly oil the grill grates with a high-heat oil, like canola or vegetable oil, to prevent the walleye from sticking. Use a brush or paper towel to apply the oil evenly.

3. Grill Time:

• Don't overcrowd the grill: Place the walleye fillets on the preheated grill, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
• Cook time: Grilling time will depend on the thickness of the fillets, but generally, you should cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the walleye is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

4. Checking for Doneness:

• The flake test: The best way to ensure your walleye is cooked through is to gently flake it with a fork. If it flakes easily, it's ready. Avoid overcooking, as this will make the fish dry and tough.

Serving Your Grilled Walleye

Once cooked, remove the walleye from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fish.

Serving Suggestions:

• Simple is best: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs are all you need for a simple yet elegant dish.
• Get creative: Serve your grilled walleye with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or some delicious rice.

Keywords: grill walleye, grilled walleye recipe, cooking walleye, how to grill walleye, best walleye recipe, summer grilling recipes, delicious walleye, flaky walleye, easy walleye recipe.

By following these simple steps, you'll be enjoying perfectly grilled walleye in no time. Happy grilling!