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Can You Eat Amberjack?

AJ, or the amberjack, is a type of fish that’s found in the Atlantic Ocean and in the Gulf of Mexico.

Amberjack on a plate

They are a popular fish that most anglers seek out frequently. Typically, they are caught when fishermen are looking for much larger fish, like tuna, shark, and barracuda.

They are unique fish that can even be prized. So, you may be wondering, can you eat amberjack?

Do People Eat Amberjack?

In short, yes, you can eat amberjack. However, it is important to note that they can carry parasites around their tail, so they must be properly cleaned and cut.

amberjack swimming

It’s also worth noting that if a bad amberjack is caught, it is pretty easy to tell whether or not you should toss them back, as the parasites, particularly worms, are usually visible. 

That being said, this type of fish can be prepared in many ways once it’s properly cleaned and cut.

fresh amberjack for eating

Unlike many other types of fish, there aren’t too many bones you have to worry about. Just make sure that you’re eating the right parts of this fish.

What Does Amberjack Taste Like? 

Amberjack tastes a lot like mahi-mahi which is one of our favorite saltwater fish to eat. It is described as having a very mild taste.

amberjack jumping out of the water

The meat is lean and has a consistency that many would compare to steak or swordfish.

Depending on how it’s cooked, the meat itself can become overpowered by too much seasoning or breading.

Since there are many different ways to enjoy this fish, the taste is going to largely depend on how it’s cooked and what it’s cooked with.

school of amberjack swimming

If you are a person who does not enjoy an overly fishy taste, it is still worth giving this fish a try since its flavor is so mild.

Is It Edible? 

Absolutely! This fish is not only edible, it is described by many as being delicious. As long as the right parts of this fish are cooked and there are no parasites, it is totally edible and quite good.

two fillets of fresh amberjack

Just make sure that the tail is checked for parasites and that it is properly cleaned and cut. As long as it’s prepared and handled correctly, it’s a very good fish. 

A safe amberfish is easy to spot both by trained eyes and untrained eyes alike.

an amberjack swimming in the ocean

When you do get a good amberfish, they are edible and come with a nice, mild taste that many are likely to enjoy.

Can You Eat It Raw? 

Amberjack is a very popular raw sashimi dish in japan.  It is called Kanpachi is you are dining at a sushi restaurant and want to order it.

Greater amberjack sashimi called KANPACHI in Japanese

It Is Safe to Eat?

As previously mentioned, this type of fish can have issues with parasites. However, the parasites are quite easy to detect even by untrained eyes and typically occur in the tail section of this fish.

raw amberjack fillet

This means that this fish is completely safe to eat as long as it’s cooked well and prepared properly. There are no poisons or other types of concerns with this fish.

Final Thoughts

Amberfish may not be a fish you would seek out or perhaps have even heard about. However, if you are looking to try something new, there is no reason not to give this fish a try.

As long as it’s properly cleaned, cut and cooked, this fish is perfectly safe to eat. And, who knows? You may find a new fish that you love! Go ahead and try catching one yourself to take home for dinner!

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