Black Drum Recipe: The Secret to Delicious Black Drum Fish in a Cast Iron Skillet

If you love seafood, especially thick-fleshed fish with a distinctive flavor and dense texture, you must try this Black Drum Recipe. This recipe uses a cast iron skillet (a legendary cast iron skillet) that creates a crispy crust on the surface of the fish while maintaining the tenderness of the meat.

In this article, you’ll discover how to cook black drum using simple yet mouth-watering techniques and spices. We’ll also discuss the nutritional value, origins of this fish, and tips for choosing fresh fish to ensure this recipe is perfect.

Before we delve into the recipe, let’s learn a little about Black Drum.

What is Black Drum?

The black drum (Pogonias cromis) is a type of marine fish that inhabits shallow waters, such as the Gulf of Mexico and the western Atlantic. This fish is characterized by its large, blackish body and vertical stripes, especially when young. This fish is popular among anglers because it can grow very large (up to 30 kg!), and is also popular with chefs because of its mild, neutral flavor.

Black drum has high culinary potential, similar to snapper or grouper. Many chefs worldwide use black drum in various recipes, especially those that employ dry heat techniques like grilling, frying, or searing in a cast-iron skillet.

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Why Use Cast Iron for Black Drum Recipes?

A cast iron skillet is more than just an ordinary cookware. It can store and distribute heat evenly, making it ideal for cooking thick-fleshed fish like black drum. When heated properly, the surface of the skillet will initiate the Maillard reaction, a process of caramelization of proteins and sugars that results in a crisp, flavorful outer layer of the fish.

Furthermore, cast iron skillets are durable and can be moved directly from the stovetop to the oven, providing great cooking flexibility.

Cast Iron Black Drum Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 black drum fillets (approximately 200 grams each)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Lemon slices and fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

How to Cook:

1. Prepare the Fish

Rinse the fish fillets with cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel. Make sure the surface of the fish is completely dry so that a crust forms when cooked.

2. Seasoning

Combine the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Rub evenly over both sides of the fish.

3. Heat the Cast Iron

Place the cast iron skillet on the stovetop and heat over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Add the olive oil and spread evenly over the entire surface.

4. Cook the Fish

Place the black drum fillets in the pan (skin side down if applicable). Do not flip for 3–4 minutes to allow the crust to form. Gently flip and cook the other side for 2–3 minutes.

5. Add Butter and Lemon

At the last minute, add the butter to the pan. Use a spoon to drizzle the melted butter over the fish. Finally, add a squeeze of lemon.

6. Serve

Remove and serve with lemon slices and parsley. Serve with mashed potatoes, salad, or buttered rice.

Tips for Perfect Cast Iron Cooking

• Preheat patiently: Don’t rush. The pan should be thoroughly hot before adding the fish.
• Don’t flip the fish: Let one side cook first to prevent it from falling apart.
• Use a thin metal spatula: It’s Good to remove the fish without damaging the surface.
• Season the pan regularly: To prevent sticking and enhance the flavor.

Nutritional Content of Black Drum Fish

According to the DOH.WA.GOV, black drum fish is rich in:

• Protein: ±20 grams per 100 grams of fillet
• Omega-3: Good fat for the heart and brain
• Vitamin D and B12
• Low in calories: ±120–130 calories per 100 grams

Given its nutritional content, black drum fish is an ideal choice for those looking for a healthy menu without sacrificing flavor.

Other Black Drum Recipe Variations

While this cast iron black drum recipe is quite classic, you can get creative with various cooking styles:

• Blackened Black Drum: Use Cajun seasoning and cook over high heat.
• Pan-Seared with Garlic Butter Sauce: Add garlic sauce and butter.
• Grilled Black Drum: Perfect for outdoor BBQs.
• Asian Style: Use ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

Tips for Choosing Fresh Black Drum

Before you start cooking black drum, the first important step is to choose fresh, high-quality fish from the market. Here are some tips to look for:

• The flesh should feel firm and not have a strong fishy odor.
• The fillets should be white or light gray.
• If the skin is still on, make sure it’s not excessively slimy.
• If you live in Asia and it’s difficult to find black drum, you can substitute fish like snapper or grouper, which have a similar texture and flavor.

FAQ about Black Drum Recipe

Q: Is black drum suitable for the keto diet?

A: Yes, because it’s high in protein and healthy fats, and low in carbohydrates.

Q: Can you use a regular Teflon pan?

A: Yes, but you won’t get the crispy crust you get with cast iron. Make sure the temperature is high enough and don’t turn the fish too often.

Q: Can you bake it in the oven?

A: Yes. After cooking it for 2 minutes per side in the pan, place it in the oven at 180°C for 5 minutes to cook thoroughly.

Conclusion

The Black Drum Recipe is an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy seafood in a simple, healthy, and delicious way. The keys to its success lie in the quality of the fish, the cooking technique in the cast iron pan, and the simple seasonings that enhance the fish’s natural flavor.

By following this guide, you can not only recreate restaurant-style dishes at home but also have a rich and satisfying culinary experience.