Mushy perch

[Ken Jones]

People complain about perch being mushy and I've seen some people suggest brining them for a while before cooking them. Anyone try that?

 

[K1n]

i've pesonally never tried it, but i've heard of people actually dry aging them to firm up the meat as well. I, for one, do not have issues with softer meat of a fish, it can always be addressed with prep/cooking technique such as broiling it in a foil pouch instead of frying or as you mentioned: brining/drying before cooking. But some fish are better enjoyed as they are in my opinion.

 

[TheFrood]

I've never understood why people have issues with perch either or call it mushy. Stuff the body with some lemon and dill, some lemon slices
on the body with salt, pepper, maybe some blackening seasonings on the body and a few pats of butter. Wrap in foil and throw on the bbq
or campfire where it can cook moderately slow (not too high temp). Delicious.

 

[CatchinKelp]

I personally find it mushy. One thing I want to try is making ceviche out of surfperch to see if that helps firm it up.

 

[Ken Jones]

I too am not too worried about them being mushy. All fish are different and the way you handle them after catching them and the way you cook them largely determines how good they are. BUT, it does stop some from eating them.