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When you think of New York, you might conjure up images of towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and the Statue of Liberty. But the Empire State offers something more for those who venture to its shores - a delectable and unique seafood experience. If you're a passionate angler, you're in for a treat. We're about to embark on a culinary adventure that's as satisfying as it is enjoyable - baking whole porgies. This recipe encapsulates the essence of the New York coast, and whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking to explore the culinary wonders of your catch, this is a must-try.

Ingredients​

For this whole porgy recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
  • Fresh whole porgies (also known as bream)
  • Coarse sea salt
  • Butter
  • Olive oil
  • Lemons
  • Freshly ground pepper

Instructions​

1. Choosing the Perfect Porgy
  • When selecting your porgies, ensure they look fresh with clear, bright eyes, and bright, blood-like gills. The fish should have that distinctive scent of the ocean, not a fishy odor.
2. Preparing the Porgies
  • Begin by rinsing the fish thoroughly, removing any scales left by the fishmonger.
  • Use a real towel, not paper towels, to pat the fish dry. This step is essential to maximize flavor infusion and seasoning adherence.
  • Score the fish diagonally with a chef's knife, allowing the flavors to penetrate the flesh.
3. Seasoning and Flavoring
  • Rub coarse sea salt all over the fish, making sure every cavity gets a good dose.
  • Optionally, add small cubes of butter, olive oil, and lemon slices into the fish's cavities. These ingredients infuse the porgy with richness and flavor.
4. The Baking Process
  • Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place the prepared porgies on a greased sheet tray.
  • Grind fresh pepper over the fish, enhancing its flavor profile.
  • Bake the fish for approximately 10 minutes. It's ready when the room is filled with a mouthwatering aroma, and the flesh easily separates from the bone.
5. Enjoying Your Catch
  • To savor your baked porgy, start by gently removing the top layer of flesh without disturbing the bone structure.
  • Be vigilant about the bones while eating, using a knife to separate the skeleton from the fillet.
  • Focus on enjoying the fillet, taking care to avoid bones in the head and sideburn parts.
  • Discard the sections with numerous bones.

Cooking Tips​

  • For a dairy-free option, omit the butter and use more olive oil.
  • If you're new to eating fish with bones, consider trying snapper as it's less bony.
  • While consuming porgies, stay alert to avoid bones. You don't need to know the names of the bones; just be cautious.
  • Savor this simple recipe that, while minimal in ingredients, offers a rich and delightful experience. It's ideal for a leisurely meal that requires concentration.
Read More about Porgy

Conclusion​

Baking whole porgies is a culinary adventure that New York anglers won't want to miss. This recipe captures the essence of the sea, offering a truly authentic experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just someone looking to explore a unique New York delicacy, give this recipe a try. It's simple, flavorful, and, above all, a taste of the ocean brought straight to your plate. Don't hesitate to try it and share your results with fellow anglers and seafood enthusiasts!
We'd love to hear about your experiences with this recipe. Feel free to leave your comments, share this article with your angler friends, and explore more delectable seafood recipes on our site. Happy cooking and tight lines!