Can You Eat Permit Fish?

Permit fish are a type of fish that you’re going to find closer to the shore. It isn’t one that you’re likely to see at many markets or on the menu at many restaurants but you can catch this fish for yourself. Their bodies are pretty flat and they can be a fish that looks quite strange at first glance. Even still, you may be wondering, can you eat permit fish?

Do People Eat Permit Fish?

Contrary to what you may have heard, you can eat permit fish, and they can actually get a bit larger than the more commonly eaten fish, pompano. There are quite a few ways you can enjoy eating this type of fish, including frying and grilling. They provide nice fillets that those who enjoy eating this fish love to prepare on the grill with some herbs and spices.

Many people also enjoy eating permit fish with a little bit of butter for dipping. This type of fish can be a bit tricky to catch though, as they have keen senses that make them quickly swim away when they feel threatened. But, if you do manage to get your hands on one, they are very good to eat!

What Does It Taste Like? 

The meat of permit fish is going to be very delicate and not overly fishy. If they aren’t properly cooked or are preserved too long, their meat can become a bit tough. However, fresh, their meat is going to be softer than that of many other types of fish. This type of fish is great for those who don’t know if they like to eat fish or not because you aren’t going to get hit with that overly fishy taste.

When served up on the grill with some goods herbs and spices, this type of fish is one that fish lovers truly enjoy, sometimes even more than the more popular pompano.

Is It Edible? 

Yes, permit fish is completely edible. Just like with other fish, it is important that they are properly cleaned and cut as to not compromise their flavor. When cooked on the grill or even fried, this type of fish is a favorite among seafood lovers. 

Can You Eat It Raw? 

Permit fish would be completely safe to eat raw but there are better options. The meat of permit fish is often described as being so delicate that it often needs other tastes to accompany it so eating it as sushi wouldn’t provide as much taste as pompano would. That being said, with the right type of marinade and preparation, some do enjoy eating this fish raw.

However, if you want to try a new type of raw fish, it is said that the pompano, a very similar fish, tastes a lot better when eaten as sushi or sashimi. But, there is no reason not to try it if you’re looking for something new and unique.

It Is Safe to Eat? 

Yes, permit fish are safe to eat! While they are an interesting fish in appearance and behavior, that doesn’t mean that there are any worries when it comes to consuming them. They have no poison or anything else troubling that you would need to be worried about.

Permit fish are not as popular as the similar fish, pompano. However, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t as tasty! If you are looking to try a new type of fish and aren’t sure which one to go for, try the permit fish! Even if you don’t like fish, they have a mild taste. You may find that this type of fish is a new favorite that you can’t live without.