Fri. May 3rd, 2024

How to Grill Fish on a Gas Grill

By Elliot 2 years ago

Grilling can be a year-round cooking option for people, and the type of food you can prepare is almost endless. You can grill meat, veggies and even fruit for family and friends, and it is a fun activity in your backyard or deck.

While the standard fare is hamburgers and hotdogs, fish is perfectly suited for a gas grill. Have you tried to cook the protein of the sea on your grill yet?

Let’s learn how to grill fish on a gas grill:

Grill tools

You wouldn’t work on your car without some screwdrivers and wrenches, would you? How about painting a house with your bare hands? To do a job right, you need the tools designed for the task, and grilling is no different.

Here is a list of must-have grilling tools:

  • 2 Metal spatulas
  • Long handles tongs
  • Grilling Fork
  • Cleaning brush
  • Spray bottle
  • Paper towels
  • Grill thermometer
  • BBQ mitts

When you have all your tools assembled, you don’t have to frantically look around last minute.

Prepare the gas grill

Whether your gas barbecue is brand new or well used, it needs to be cleaned before each use. Food debris sticks to your grates, but it’s pretty easy to clean them off using a few different methods.

Start by turning the grill on high and closing the lid. Let it get to 500 degrees so it will burn off any residue or turn its ash. Now you can start by scraping the grill with your brush. Take your time to remove anything you see on the grates, so you leave a clean surface. Use vinegar mixed with water in a spray bottle, spray it on the grates, and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping off.

Another trick is to use an onion. Cut it in half and use a fork to hold it, so you don’t burn your hands. Rub it in along the grate, and it will break down fat and grease with the natural acids in the onion.

Now the grill should warm, and you can rub some neutral oil on it to prevent sticking. Use a paper towel and wipe the entire grill to season it and then close the lid to prepare to cook.

Best fish to grill

All fish cooks well on a gas grill, but what you choose will dictate the best way to cook it. Fish cooks at a medium-high temperature, and it is best to create two zones with the burners off on one end. This way, you can move your fish off direct heat if you need to.

A meaty fish you can cook in steaks or fillets, but a flakier fish do better grilled whole or on a pan.

How to grill fish

Make sure to rub your fish with oil before going on the grill. This adds more protection from sticking and holds on any seasoning you put on. Start your fish skin side down first and cover the grill to let it cook for 3-4 minutes or until the skin is brown and has grill marks.

Now using your spatula, gently slide it under the fish. If it sticks, give it another minute or two. You want the fish to sear and form a crust, so it flips easily. Use two spatulas to better control the fish and get it flipped. Close up the grill again and let it cook for another 3-6 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of around 140 degrees.

Other grilling methods

Besides grilling fish straight on the grate, you can also use these methods:

  • Grill Pan: This gives you a flat surface to cook on. Make sure to preheat the pan on the grill before putting your fish on.
  • Skewers: You can make up a marinade and cube your fish to soak up the flavours for 30 minutes in the fridge. Then place them on the skewers and cook them on a grill pan or directly on the grill. Tongs work best for flipping them.
  • Wood Plank: A cedar board is the best wood for grilling fish. Make sure to soak the plank in water for two hours before grilling and have a spray bottle with water for knocking down flames on the board. It’s ok to burn a bit because that gives you fish the smokey flavour. Oil the board before putting on the fish, and then grill away. When the fish is done, remove the plank with BBQ mitts, so you don’t burn yourself.

Fish cooks fast, so never walk away from the grill for too long. Keep checking it and flip it when it’s ready, so you don’t burn it.

Grilling fish takes time and technique. Use this as a guide to grilling fish on a gas grill and experiment with different types of fish. Your family and friends will love the variety, and you will become the grill master.