
Everything You Need to Know About Monkfish
Monkfish may not win any beauty contests, but it’s one of the finest eating fish available. With firm, meaty flesh and a delicate, slightly sweet flavour, it’s a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike. Whether you’re roasting it whole or pan-frying fillets, monkfish offers a luxurious texture that holds its shape and pairs beautifully with bold or subtle ingredients.
What Is Monkfish?
Monkfish is a deep-sea species found in the North East Atlantic and landed regularly at Brixham Fish Market. Only the tail section is typically sold for consumption, as the rest of the fish is largely bone and head. Its lean, boneless flesh is often compared to lobster for its texture—making it ideal for special occasions or restaurant-style meals at home.
What Does Monkfish Taste Like?
Monkfish has a mild, slightly sweet flavour with a firm texture that doesn’t flake like most white fish. Instead, it has a satisfying bite, making it perfect for grilling, baking, pan-roasting, or even skewering for seafood kebabs. It pairs well with strong flavours such as garlic, citrus, chilli, or Mediterranean herbs.
How to Cook Monkfish
Thanks to its dense, almost meat-like texture, monkfish holds up well in a range of cooking methods:
- Pan-fried: A quick sear in a hot pan with butter and herbs enhances its natural sweetness.
- Oven-roasted: Roast whole or in fillets with lemon and seasonal vegetables for an elegant main course.
- On skewers: Monkfish is a firm favourite for seafood kebabs, as it stays juicy and doesn’t fall apart on the grill.
- In curries or stews: Its robust flesh makes it ideal for rich sauces and slow cooking.
Is Monkfish Sustainable?
Monkfish is fished throughout the North East Atlantic and landed by local boats at ports like Brixham. Stocks are carefully monitored, and at Hamilton’s Fish we only source monkfish tails fresh from the daily market. Because we buy to order and never hold stock, you’re guaranteed monkfish that is both responsibly sourced and sustainably handled.
Why Choose Monkfish?
- Restaurant-quality texture: Holds its shape in cooking and delivers a luxurious bite.
- Versatile in the kitchen: Pan-fry, roast, grill, or stew — it performs beautifully.
- Fresh from Brixham: Sourced directly from the day boats and prepared to order.
Whether you're planning a dinner party or trying something new at home, monkfish is a standout choice for those who appreciate quality seafood.
Order fresh monkfish tails from Hamilton’s Fish — delivered direct from Brixham to your kitchen.