FOW Swordfish
Fish of Week
Ocean to Table
Swordfish (English)
Fish
Seafood Species: Swordfish, along with marlin, spearfish, and sailfish, are collectively referred to as billfish. Swordfish are the only species in an unusual family called Xiphiidae. This name refers to the sword-like projection of the upper jaw.
Swordfish, also known as broadbills in some countries, are large, highly migratory, predatory fish characterized by a long, flat, pointed bill. They are a popular sport fish of the billfish category, though elusive. Swordfish are elongated, round-bodied, and lose all teeth and scales by adulthood. Wikipedia
Scientific name: Xiphias gladius
Conservation status: Least Concern (Population decreasing)
Rank: Species
Higher classification: Xiphias
Length: Swordfish reach a maximum length of about 4.5 m and a max weight of 650 kg.
Recipe
Grilled Swordfish with Charred Leeks and Citrus
INGREDIENTS
• 4 medium leeks (about 2½ lb.)
• 1 cup green olives
• ¼ cup coarsely chopped dill
• 3 Tbsp. white wine vinegar
• Kosher salt
• 5 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more
• 3 oranges
• 4 1″-thick swordfish steaks (about 3 lb.)
• Freshly ground black pepper
RECIPE PREPARATION
• Prepare a grill for high heat. Trim dark green parts from leeks and remove any tough outer layers. Rinse off any sand and dirt and pat dry.
• Throw leeks on grill (no oil needed) and grill, turning every few minutes with tongs, until outside layer is completely blackened (they should start to soften and you might see some juices begin to ooze out), 10–12 minutes. Transfer to a platter and let cool (this also allows them to steam and become tender on the inside). Reduce grill heat to medium-high.
• Meanwhile, smash open olives using the side of a chef’s knife and remove pits (try to leave olive flesh in big pieces). Transfer to a medium bowl.
• Cut leeks into ½”-thick rounds (ashy parts and all) and add to bowl with olives along with dill, vinegar, a big pinch of salt, and 3 Tbsp. oil; toss to combine.
• Slice off both ends of oranges, exposing the flesh beneath the pith, then stand an orange upright on a cut side like this:
• Following the natural curve of orange, slice away peel and white pith from top to bottom.
• Trim off any remaining bits of pith, then lay orange on its side and cut crosswise into ¼”-thick rounds. Set aside for serving.
• Clean and oil grate and rub swordfish steaks with 2 Tbsp. oil; season with salt. Grill until lightly charred and just cooked through (fish will feel firm when gently pressed), 5–7 minutes per side.
• Divide swordfish among plates and arrange reserved sliced oranges around. Spoon leek mixture and any juices in bowl over. Drizzle with more oil and season with pepper.
