What is Branzino?

Branzino, also known as European sea bass, is one of the most popular fish on restaurant menus. It’s a white-fleshed fish, prized for its delicate texture and mild flavor. Branzino is usually served in dishes featuring Mediterranean flavors, such as lemon, garlic, and herbs. You can also find it served with sauces like salsa verde or brown butter. While wild caught branzino is preferred over farmed versions, both are highly sought after.

Branzino’s Unique Flavor

Branzino is mild, sweet and delicate in flavor. It has a slightly firm flesh with a medium to high fat content that gives off a pleasant, buttery taste. Its mildness works well with more assertive flavors such as herbs and spices – it can easily be adapted to most cuisines. In addition, because branzino is a lean fish, it has less water content than some other fish, which makes it great for quickly grilling and baking.

Cooking With Branzino

Branzino is a versatile fish. You can bake it with herbs, spices and vegetables, grill it, roast it, or poach it in broth. If using a dry rub or marinades, apply them at least 12 hours in advance, as branzino is a delicate fish and won’t absorb more intense flavors as well as, say, tuna. When grilling, buy branzino whole – the skin helps to keep the delicate fish from falling apart. At the table, pair this mild fish with citrusy flavors that bring out its unique sweetness – such as fresh lemon juice or orange slices.

In conclusion, branzino is a mild, sweet and delicate fish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. It’s a great choice when you want a fish that’s full of flavor but still easy to work with. Whether you’re baking, grilling, roasting or poaching, branzino is a perfect match to help you create a delicious dish.