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New York, the Empire State, boasts a diverse range of outdoor activities, and for those who love angling, its waters offer a unique and exciting fishing experience. But what's even more enticing is what happens after you reel in a prized striped bass. In this article, we're about to embark on a culinary adventure that's not only a treat for the taste buds but also a celebration of the local catch.Striped bass is a beloved gamefish in New York, and what better way to honor this piscatorial marvel than by preparing a dish that truly highlights its flavors? We're going to delve into a mouthwatering recipe for Striped Bass with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Capers – a dish that strikes a balance between simplicity and sophistication.This recipe has been cherished by anglers and food enthusiasts across New York for its delightful combination of flaky, tender bass fillets, a savory brown butter sauce, zesty lemon, and the piquant pop of capers. It's a taste of the local waters, a tribute to our passion for fishing, and a culinary masterpiece all in one.So, grab your fishing gear, catch yourself a beautiful striped bass, and let's dive into this culinary journey that encapsulates the spirit of New York's angling and gastronomic traditions.

Ingredients​

To prepare this delectable Striped Bass with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Capers, you will need the following ingredients:
  • 4 portions of striped bass fillet (6 or 7 ounces each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • A few tbsp of minced parsley, chives, and tarragon
  • 3 tbsp salt pack capers, rehydrated, rinsed well, and dried
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 6 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp minced shallots
  • Freshly ground white pepper
  • Sea salt

Instructions​

Step 1: Preparing the Bass Fillets
  • Start by rubbing each striped bass fillet with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. This step ensures that the fish will achieve a beautiful, crispy skin while grilling.
Step 2: Grilling the Striped Bass
  • Prepare your grill for high direct heat, ensuring it's nice and hot.
  • Grill the fish for about 10 minutes for every inch of thickness. It's essential to gauge the thickness of your fillets to ensure they're cooked to perfection.
  • Grill the fish with the skin side down. The skin should become delightfully charred, adding to the dish's visual appeal and flavor.
Step 3: Making the Brown Butter and Caper Sauce
  • In a small sauté pan, melt the 6 tablespoons of butter over high heat. Keep a close eye on it; you want the butter to turn a rich, nut-brown color. This is where the magic happens.
  • Add the minced shallots and stir to incorporate.
  • Introduce the rehydrated, rinsed, and dried salt pack capers to the pan, giving them a quick sauté for about 30 seconds.
  • Now, add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice for that zesty kick.
  • Remove the pan from heat and stir in the minced parsley, chives, and tarragon. This herbaceous mix adds a fresh, aromatic dimension to the sauce.
Step 4: Serving the Striped Bass
  • Place the grilled striped bass on a serving platter, ensuring the crispy, charred skin side is up.
  • Generously pour the brown butter and caper sauce over the fish, allowing it to cascade over the fillets.
Step 5: Enjoying the Culinary DelightYour Striped Bass with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Capers is now ready to be enjoyed. The flaky, perfectly grilled bass fillets harmonize with the savory, nutty brown butter sauce, while the capers and lemon juice add a tangy twist that elevates the dish to a gourmet level.

Cooking Tips​

  • When grilling, ensure the fish fillets are cooked to the point of being done. Striped bass is typically more enjoyable when cooked through rather than served raw.
  • Feel free to add some variations to the dish by incorporating your favorite herbs or experimenting with different types of fish.
  • Don't forget to make the most of the striped bass collar and bones by turning them into a flavorful fish stock for future culinary creations.
Read More about Striped Bass

Conclusion​

In the heart of New York's angler's paradise, we've explored a recipe that encapsulates the essence of fishing and culinary creativity. Striped Bass with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Capers is not just a dish; it's a celebration of the local catch and a testament to our love for angling. It's an easy yet sophisticated recipe that transforms your prized striped bass into a delectable masterpiece. So, anglers, seize the opportunity to savor your own fresh catch in a whole new way.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this delectable recipe. Have you tried it, or do you plan to give it a go? Let us know about your culinary adventures in the comments below. And, if you're hungry for more, explore our website for a treasure trove of recipes that celebrate the joys of fishing and the love of good food. Happy cooking!