Air-Fryer Mahi Mahi: The Perfect Timing

Mahi-mahi is a delicious, mild-flavoured fish that can be cooked in an air fryer in as little as 8 minutes. The air fryer is a great way to cook fish, as it ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking. This method also gives the fish a crispy texture on the outside while keeping it flaky in the middle. You can cook frozen or fresh mahi-mahi in an air fryer, and it can be seasoned in a variety of ways, making it a versatile dish that can be served with many different cuisines.

How to cook mahi mahi in an air fryer

Mahi mahi is a delicious, mild-flavoured fish that can be cooked in an air fryer in a variety of ways. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Ingredients and Preparation:

Firstly, gather your ingredients. You will need:

• Mahi mahi fillets (fresh or frozen)
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Seasonings of your choice (e.g. Cajun, blackening, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper)
• Optional: butter, lemon wedges, and mango salsa for serving.

If your mahi mahi fillets are frozen, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel. Then, drizzle or brush the fillets with oil and season them generously.

Cooking Method:

Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F. Grease the air fryer basket with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the fillets in a single layer in the basket and cook for 8-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. For best results, flip the fillets halfway through the cooking time.

Testing for Doneness:

Mahi mahi is cooked when it is flaky and no longer pink in the middle. You can test this by piercing the fillet with a fork or using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 137-145°F.

Serving Suggestions:

Mahi mahi is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Try roasted potatoes, greens (such as asparagus or green beans), salad, or rice. It also works great in fish tacos or as a replacement for salmon in salmon bowls.

Storage and Reheating:

Store any leftover mahi mahi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, place the fillets in the air fryer for a few minutes, or add them to a skillet with butter or oil.

Tips:

• If you want a crispy coating, coat the fillets with panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
• For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter.
• If your fillets have skin on, you can leave it on during cooking and remove it easily after the fish is cooked.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air-fried mahi mahi!

How to season mahi mahi for the air fryer

Seasoning and cooking mahi-mahi in an air fryer is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Pat the mahi-mahi fillets dry with a paper towel. You can use either fresh or frozen fillets, but make sure to thaw frozen fillets completely before adding any seasonings.

Step 2: Add Oil and Seasonings

Drizzle or brush some olive oil or melted butter on top of the fillets. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix the spices in a bowl, then rub them all over the fish. Alternatively, you can use cajun or blackening seasoning, or a blend of herbs and garlic.

Step 3: Bread the Fish (Optional)

If you want a crispy coating, dip each fillet in a mixture of panko bread crumbs and spices. Make sure the breading sticks well to the fish.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to between 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Spritz with cooking oil if desired, to prevent the fish from drying out.

Cook the mahi-mahi for 8-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets and your desired level of doneness. Check the fish around the 7-minute mark to avoid overcooking. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has a golden hue.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the mahi-mahi with lemon wedges, or pair it with roasted potatoes, greens, or salad. It also works well in fish tacos, salmon bowls, or fish sandwiches. Enjoy!

How long to cook mahi mahi in an air fryer

Mahi mahi is a versatile fish that can be cooked in an air fryer from both fresh and frozen states. The duration of cooking depends on the thickness of the fillets and whether the fish is cooked from frozen or fresh.

Cooking from fresh

Cooking times for fresh mahi mahi fillets range from 7 to 15 minutes. The fish is done when it is flaky and reaches an internal temperature of 137°F to 145°F. It is recommended to check the fish around the 7-minute mark to prevent overcooking.

Cooking from frozen

When cooking frozen mahi mahi fillets, the cooking time increases to 8 to 15 minutes. It is important to ensure that the fish is thoroughly defrosted before adding any seasonings and placing it in the air fryer.

Tips for cooking mahi mahi in an air fryer

• Always grease the air fryer basket with oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
• For a crispy texture, consider adding a panko breading by coating the fillets with panko breadcrumbs before placing them in the air fryer.
• For even cooking, place the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Flip the fillets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on both sides.
• For added moisture and flavour, spritz the fillets with oil during cooking.

Seasoning ideas

Mahi mahi is a mild-flavoured fish that pairs well with various seasonings. Here are some ideas:

• Cajun or blackening seasoning
• Lemon pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Taco seasoning
• Parmesan cheese

How to reheat mahi mahi in an air fryer

If you have leftover mahi mahi, you can easily reheat it in an air fryer. This method is preferred over using a microwave, stove, or oven, as it will keep the outside crispy and avoid a soggy centre.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F to 400°F.
• Place the leftover mahi mahi fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Reheat for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until heated through.

Tips:

• If your leftover mahi mahi is frozen, be sure to defrost it before reheating.
• You can also reheat mahi mahi in a skillet with some butter or oil.
• Avoid microwaving leftover mahi mahi, as it may overcook the fish.

Now you can enjoy your delicious and crispy mahi mahi again!

What to serve with mahi mahi

Mahi Mahi is a versatile fish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas on what to serve with Mahi Mahi:

Rice

Rice is a great option to serve with Mahi Mahi, as it can be prepared in a variety of ways that complement the mild flavour of the fish. Here are some specific rice dishes that go well with Mahi Mahi:

• Jasmine rice: This can be seasoned with lime juice, lemon zest, fresh herbs, bell pepper, or chilies, or served plain to let the Mahi Mahi shine.
• Red beans and rice: A hearty and delicious option with ample amounts of amazing flavours.
• Cilantro lime rice: A tangy and savoury option that pairs perfectly with grilled Mahi Mahi.
• Coconut rice: Sweet and flavorful rice that balances the Mahi Mahi.

Potatoes

Potatoes are another versatile option that can be prepared in a variety of ways to complement Mahi Mahi. Here are some specific potato dishes that go well with Mahi Mahi:

• Roasted potatoes: Especially Cajun roasted potatoes, which have a simple yet tasty blend of spices that go great with Mahi Mahi.
• Mashed sweet potatoes: The sweetness of these potatoes pairs well with the Mahi Mahi and can be seasoned with cinnamon, curry spices, lemon, cheese, or butter.
• French fries: A classic option that can be made in an air fryer or Instant Pot for a crunchy texture.
• Baked potatoes: These can be loaded with extra butter and toppings to make a hearty side dish.

Vegetables

Vegetables are a healthy and tasty option to serve with Mahi Mahi. Here are some specific vegetable dishes that go well with Mahi Mahi:

• Green beans: These can be prepared in an Instant Pot and drizzled with olive oil, lemon juice, or balsamic vinegar.
• Asparagus: A simple and healthy side that can be prepared using the Instant Pot or any other method. Bacon-wrapped asparagus is also a great option for a smoky flavour.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green and slightly crisp broccoli smothered in butter is a perfect side for Mahi Mahi.
• Caramelized carrots: Carrots cooked to a golden-brown perfection offer a sweet and savoury side that pairs wonderfully with Mahi Mahi.
• Zucchini boats: Hollowed-out zucchini halves filled with vegetables, herbs, and cheese, baked until tender, make a creative and nutritious side.

Other options

• Polenta: Rich and creamy polenta pairs well with the buttery flavour of Mahi Mahi.
• Grits: For a cheesier option, serve Mahi Mahi with grits.
• Quinoa salad: A chilled quinoa salad is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make option, especially when paired with pineapple mango salsa.
• Black-eyed peas: A healthy and simple side dish that can be spiced up in any way you like.
• Greek salad: A fresh and tangy option with a medley of Mediterranean vegetables.

Frequently asked questions