If you're a fisherman, chances are you've caught more fish heads than you can count. And if you've ever tried to cook with one, you probably know that it can be a challenge to make it taste good. While they may not be the most delicious parts of the fish, there is still plenty of value in these heads.In this blog post, we'll be covering everything from cooking tips to recipes for using your fish head in all sorts of delicious dishes and drinks. We'll even give you some ideas on what to do with the rest of your catch! So without further ado… let's dive into the world of fish head recipes!What to Do With Fish Heads?Fish are a great source of protein, but they can be expensive. If you're looking for an alternative to buying fish, consider using your own catch. The best way to maximize your catch is by using what you've got in the way of fish heads.Fish heads are packed with nutrients and vitamins, so when you get them home, don't toss them out! There are lots of things that you can do with fish heads beyond just throwing them away, which we've listed below:1) Make Fish StockThe first thing you should do with a fish head is make stock out of it. Adding just about any kind of flavorings and vegetables (like carrots, onions, and celery) can turn this ingredient into an amazing broth for soups or stews.To make fish stock from fish heads, you will need:Fish heads from non-oily fish such as cod, haddock, or halibut.Vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery.Aromatics such as garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns.Water or white wine.A large pot or stockpot.Instructions:Clean the fish heads and remove any scales, eyes, and gills.Roughly chop the vegetables and aromatics and add them to the pot.Add the fish heads to the pot and cover with water or white wine.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the fish heads are cooked through and the flavors have infused the liquid.Remove the pot from the heat and strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the solids.Allow the stock to cool before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer.You can also add fish bones to the stock for a more intense fish flavor. Fish stock can be used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces.2) Fish Head SoupThis is one of the most popular ways to use up your fish heads because it's so easy and delicious!You'll need a large pot to cook your soup in, a few cloves of garlic (chopped), salt/pepper/onion powder, and any other spices you like (we recommend basil or thyme).Cook the veggies until they're soft then add enough water to cover everything by about 2 inches.Bring this mixture to a boil then simmer for 20 minutes or so until everything is tender but not mushy.You can add some extra flavor by adding some sliced mushrooms or carrots after cooking has finished if desired. Serve with fresh bread or rice, and enjoy!3) Deep-Fried or Steamed Fish HeadsIf you're going to deep-fry the fish head, you need to prepare it first by making sure that all of the meat has been removed from the bone. Once this is done, begin by coating it in flour and then dip it in beaten eggs with water added. After coating the fish head in flour, then dip it into beaten eggs with water added.After this step, place the coated fish head on a plate or pan before frying it in oil until golden brown. Drain any excess oil off of the fish head before serving it with rice or bread.Another way to prepare a fish head is by steaming it. This process is similar to deep-frying except for one major difference: instead of frying it in oil, steam it over boiling water until tender (about 20 minutes). Make sure that there's enough liquid in the pot so that steam can reach all parts of the fish head without burning too quickly or drying out too fast!4) Fish BaitYou can also use the head as bait while fishing so that when you pull out another one later on down the line, there will be more food available in that area than before.To make a fish bait out of a fish head, you will need:A fresh fish head from a species that is known to be a good bait fish in your area.A sharp gutting knife or scissors.A container or plastic bag for storing the bait.Instructions:Clean the fish head by removing any scales with a fish scaler, eyes, and gills.Cut the head into small chunks or slices, depending on the size of the fish and the type of fishing you will be doing.Place the chunks or slices of fish head in the container or plastic bag and store in a cool, dark place until ready to use.When you are ready to fish, thread the chunks or slices onto your hook or rig and cast your line.Note: Some anglers also add scent or flavor to their fish bait to make it more attractive to fish. You can do this by adding fish oil, fish blood or other smelly substances that fish are naturally attracted to.5) Fish Head CurryFish head curry is a popular seafood dish in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and India. Curries are made by simmering large fish heads, typically that of snapper or grouper, in a flavorful curry sauce made with a blend of spices, coconut milk, and sometimes tamarind paste. The meat from the fish head is tender and flavorful and is often served with steamed rice. The dish is often considered a Malaysian delicacy and is typically enjoyed as a special occasion or celebratory meal.Here's how to make it like a culinary director:Ingredients:1 large fish head1 onion, diced2 cloves of garlic, minced1 inch ginger, minced1 tablespoon curry powder1 teaspoon turmeric powder1 teaspoon cumin powder1 teaspoon coriander powder1 teaspoon sugar1 teaspoon salt1 cup coconut milk1 cup waterInstructions:Clean the fish head thoroughly and cut it into pieces.In a pot, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.Add in the curry powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.Add the fish head pieces and stir to coat the fish with the spice mixture.Pour in the coconut milk and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.Serve hot with steamed rice.Note: You can adjust the amount of curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt and sugar to your liking.Storage and Reheating of Whole Fish HeadsThere are lots of ways to maximize your catch by repurposing the head, but one of the best is to store it in the freezer and then use it later. Here's how:Clean and skin the fish head. If you don't have time to do this right away, you can freeze it whole and then clean it later. The freezing will keep it fresh for up to a year!Freeze your fish head in an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure no water gets into your container—if you're using a freezer bag, place some plastic wrap between the fish and the bag before sealing it shut so that no moisture can get through (this will keep your fish from getting freezer burn).When you're ready to use your frozen fish head, thaw it out in cold water for about an hour before using it (you can also thaw your fish overnight in the fridge). Then cook any way you like—it's delicious fried, baked, boiled… whatever!Join Fishing Communities with These Fishing Gear!Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy nature. You can even learn a lot about your local waterways and wildlife, not to mention the history of the area.However, one of the most important things you need when you go on a fishing trip is proper gear. It's easy to forget that some equipment can make all the difference between catching fish and coming home empty-handed.Catch fish with these fish tackles and you'll have the perfect combination of style and performance. Whether you're looking for a rod and reel combo or some new lures, Koala Outdoor has what you need. If you're planning a fishing trip with friends, check out our selection of tackle boxes and other outdoor equipment so that everyone can stay organized while they're on the water. Call us for more information about our outdoor equipment!
