What ingredients are needed to make walleye cheeks?
How to Cook Walleye Cheeks
Walleye, a freshwater fish that is widely loved for its mild yet delicious flavor, has become increasingly popular among seafood enthusiasts. While people typically prepare walleye fillets, the cheeks of the fish are a delicacy that often goes unnoticed. Believe it or not, walleye cheeks are a true culinary delight and are highly sought after in many parts of the world. Here’s a guide on how to cook walleye cheeks to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Walleye cheeks
- 2 tbsp of cornmeal or flour
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of black pepper
- 1 tsp of cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp of smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 1 lemon
Instructions
- Season the walleye cheeks evenly with salt, pepper, cayenne, and smoked paprika. In a flat bottomed dish, mix the cornmeal or flour and add the seasoned walleye cheeks. Toss the cheeks in the mixture ensuring they are completely covered.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the walleye cheeks to the pan. Ensure that there is enough space between the cheeks to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the cheeks for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Flip them over and repeat the process. The cheeks should be crispy and golden brown on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside.
- Finish the dish off by squeezing some fresh lemon juice over the cheeks for a tangy flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
Cooking walleye cheeks may seem intimidating at first, but it’s quite simple and easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can easily create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy this amazing delicacy with your family and friends.
Walleye cheeks are one of the most sought-after delicacies of freshwater lakes and rivers. Rich in flavor and texture, these succulent morsels make an excellent entrée or side dish. But, how exactly should you prepare walleye cheeks?
To start, you’ll need to acquire fresh, high-quality walleye cheeks. You may need to contact a local fish monger for these as they are not found in all markets. If you desire, walleye cheeks may also be purchased frozen.
Once you’ve acquired your walleye cheeks, separate each piece. Rinse them in cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, and season liberally with salt, pepper, and other desired herbs and spices.
Next, in a heated skillet, melt some butter. Place the walleye cheeks in the skillet and fry for 3 minutes on each side. Take care to turn the cheeks over slowly to avoid splattering the hot grease.
Once the cheeks are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the heat immediately. Serve while still hot and enjoy.
Walleye cheeks are a great way to enjoy fresh-caught fish without spending long hours in the kitchen. With this simple preparation method, you can have this delicious entrée or side dish on your table in minutes. If you’ve never tried them before, why not give them a try? You just may find yourself hooked.