Walleye, a mild-flavored fish with a delicate texture, is a popular choice among anglers and foodies alike. When cooked on the grill, walleye fillets can be transformed into a mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for a summer evening. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook walleye fillets on the grill, including preparation, marinades, grilling techniques, and serving suggestions.
Preparing Walleye Fillets for Grilling
Before you start grilling, it’s essential to prepare your walleye fillets properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
Cleaning and Rinsing
Rinse the walleye fillets under cold water, pat them dry with a paper towel, and remove any bloodlines or dark meat. This will help improve the texture and flavor of the fish.
Scaling and Filleting
If your walleye fillets have scales, remove them using a dull knife or a fish scaler. You can also ask your fishmonger to scale and fillet the fish for you.
Deboning
Remove any bones or pin bones from the fillets, as they can be a nuisance to eat around. You can use a pair of tweezers or a deboning tool to remove the bones.
Marinades and Seasonings
Marinades and seasonings can add flavor and moisture to your walleye fillets. Here are a few options to consider:
Lemon Herb Marinade
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Place the walleye fillets in a ziplock bag, pour the marinade over them, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Asian-Glazed Marinade
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Place the walleye fillets in a ziplock bag, pour the marinade over them, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Grilling Techniques
Grilling walleye fillets requires some finesse, but with the right techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked dish. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Preheating the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Make sure the grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent sticking.
Grilling the Fillets
Place the walleye fillets on the grill, skin side down (if they have skin). Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the fillets over and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.
Grilling Times and Temperatures
| Thickness of Fillet | Grilling Time | Internal Temperature |
| — | — | — |
| 1/2 inch | 4-5 minutes per side | 145°F |
| 3/4 inch | 5-6 minutes per side | 145°F |
| 1 inch | 6-7 minutes per side | 145°F |
Serving Suggestions
Walleye fillets can be served with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are a few ideas:
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini can complement the flavor of walleye fillets nicely. Simply brush the vegetables with oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill them alongside the fish.
Couscous Salad
A couscous salad with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a citrus vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fish.
Tartar Sauce
A classic tartar sauce made with mayonnaise, chopped pickles, and herbs can add a tangy flavor to the dish.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind:
Don’t Overcook
Walleye fillets can become dry and tough if overcooked. Make sure to cook them until they’re just done, and then remove them from the heat.
Use a Fish Basket
A fish basket can help prevent the fillets from falling apart on the grill. Simply place the fillets in the basket and grill them as usual.
Add Some Smoke
Adding some smoke to the grill can enhance the flavor of the walleye fillets. You can use wood chips like cedar or alder to add a smoky flavor.
By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious grilled walleye dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Remember to always handle the fish safely and cook it to the recommended internal temperature to ensure food safety. Happy grilling!
What is the ideal temperature for grilling walleye fillets?
The ideal temperature for grilling walleye fillets is between 400°F to 450°F (200°C to 230°C). This temperature range allows for a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside to perfection. It’s essential to preheat the grill to the desired temperature before placing the walleye fillets on it.
To ensure the grill has reached the ideal temperature, you can use a thermometer or the “hand test.” Hold your hand about 5 inches above the grill grates, and if you can keep it there for 2-3 seconds, the grill is ready. If you can’t keep your hand there for that long, the grill is too hot, and if you can keep it there for more than 5 seconds, the grill is too cold.
How do I prepare walleye fillets for grilling?
To prepare walleye fillets for grilling, start by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Remove any bloodlines or dark meat, as they can give the fish a strong flavor. You can also season the fillets with your desired herbs and spices, such as lemon juice, garlic powder, or paprika.
Next, brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the fillets from sticking. You can also brush the fillets themselves with oil or melted butter to add extra flavor. Make sure to handle the fillets gently to avoid damaging the delicate flesh. If you’re using a marinade or sauce, apply it to the fillets according to the recipe instructions.
How long does it take to grill walleye fillets?
The grilling time for walleye fillets depends on their thickness and the heat of the grill. As a general rule, grill the fillets for 4-6 minutes per side for every inch of thickness. So, if you have a 1-inch thick fillet, grill it for 4-6 minutes per side. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71°C) for medium.
It’s essential to keep an eye on the fillets while they’re grilling, as the cooking time can vary depending on the grill and the fillets’ thickness. You can also use the “flake test” to check if the fillets are cooked. Insert a fork or the tip of a knife into the thickest part of the fillet, and if it flakes easily, it’s cooked.
Can I grill walleye fillets with the skin on?
Yes, you can grill walleye fillets with the skin on, but it’s essential to prepare the skin properly. Start by scaling the skin and patting it dry with a paper towel. You can also score the skin in a crisscross pattern to help it crisp up during grilling. Brush the skin with oil and season with salt and pepper to add flavor.
Grilling walleye fillets with the skin on can add extra flavor and texture to the dish. The skin will crisp up during grilling, creating a delicious crust on the outside. However, make sure to grill the fillets skin-side down first to prevent the skin from sticking to the grill grates.
How do I prevent walleye fillets from sticking to the grill?
To prevent walleye fillets from sticking to the grill, make sure to brush the grill grates with oil before grilling. You can also brush the fillets themselves with oil or melted butter to add extra flavor. Additionally, pat the fillets dry with a paper towel before grilling to remove excess moisture.
Another way to prevent sticking is to grill the fillets at the right temperature. If the grill is too hot or too cold, the fillets can stick to the grates. Make sure to preheat the grill to the ideal temperature, and adjust the heat as needed during grilling.
Can I grill walleye fillets in foil or a grill basket?
Yes, you can grill walleye fillets in foil or a grill basket, but it’s essential to follow some guidelines. If using foil, make sure to poke some holes in it to allow steam to escape. You can also add some aromatics like lemon slices or herbs to the foil for extra flavor.
Grilling walleye fillets in a grill basket can help prevent them from falling apart or sticking to the grates. Make sure to brush the basket with oil before adding the fillets, and adjust the heat as needed during grilling. However, keep in mind that grilling in foil or a basket can prevent the fillets from getting a nice sear on the outside.
How do I store leftover grilled walleye fillets?
To store leftover grilled walleye fillets, make sure to cool them down to room temperature within 2 hours of grilling. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them at 40°F (4°C) or below. You can store the fillets in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to freeze the leftover fillets, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Frozen walleye fillets can be stored for up to 6 months.