Groupers
are members of the seabass family, Serranidae, and
are found in tropical and warm temperate waters
worldwide. The Serranidae has over 400 species which
are found around coral reefs and rock outcroppings
of the coastal shelf. Due to their preferred habitat,
groupers and other family members are accessible
by hook-and-line fishing and less vulnerable to
trawl fishery.
Grouper can be purchased fresh or frozen. Store
fresh grouper in the refrigerator at 32-38 degrees
F and use within two days or freeze at 0 degrees
F and use within six months. Thaw in the refrigerator
or under cold running water.
Grouper lends itself well to any form of cooking.
Because it is a lean fish, some basting is necessary
while broiling or baking to keep the flesh moist.
The heads are cartilaginous and produce a rich stock
base.
Approximate nutritional values for 4 ounces (114
grams) of raw, edible portion: calories--110; calories
from fat--20; total fat-2 grams; saturated fat--0
gram; cholesterol--55 milligrams; sodium-- 65 milligrams;
total carbohydrate-0 gram; protein--23 grams; calcium--4%
DV*; iron--6% DV. |
