Cornish Hake Fillet

Cornish hake fillet is a mild, flaky white fish caught off the coast of Cornwall, prized for its delicate flavour and versatility in cooking. It is a sustainable option and a favourite in many seafood dishes.

How to Cook Cornish Hake Fillet:

1. Pan-Frying:

   • Heat a little olive oil or butter in a non-stick pan.
   • Season the hake fillet with salt, pepper, and perhaps a sprinkle of lemon zest.
   • Cook the fillet skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy.
   • Flip the fillet and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.

2. Oven-Baking:

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Place the hake fillet on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
   • Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, and add a few lemon slices on top.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fillet is cooked through and flaky.

3. Grilling:

   • Preheat the grill to medium-high.
   • Brush the fillet with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
   • Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillet, until lightly charred and cooked through.

Serving Suggestions:

1. With Roasted Vegetables:

   • Serve the hake fillet with roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and asparagus for a wholesome meal.
   • Drizzle with a lemon-butter sauce or olive oil for added richness.

2. With a Mediterranean Twist:

   • Pair the hake fillet with a tomato-based sauce with olives, capers, garlic, and fresh basil or oregano.
   • Serve over a bed of couscous or with crusty bread.

3. Fish Tacos:

   • Flake the hake fillet into pieces and serve in soft tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a lime-cilantro dressing for fresh and vibrant fish tacos.

4. With Creamy Mashed Potatoes:

   • Serve the pan-fried hake fillet on top of creamy mashed potatoes with a side of steamed greens, like broccoli or spinach.

Storage:

• Fresh hake fillets should be kept in the refrigerator and used within 1-2 days for the best flavour.
• You can also freeze the fillets for up to three months, but it’s best to use them fresh for optimal texture.

Cornish hake is a delicious and healthy fish, perfect for a variety of dishes, whether you want a quick, simple meal or something more elaborate. Its subtle flavour pairs well with fresh herbs, citrus, and light sauces.