Last Updated on July 30, 2024 by Nina
Looking for an exciting and unique seafood dish? Try shark steak with peas!
Shark steak is a firm, meaty fish that’s surprisingly versatile in the kitchen. While not as common as other seafood options, shark meat has been consumed for centuries in coastal regions around the world.
What shark steak means to me
For me, shark steak is more than just an unusual dinner option – it’s a reminder of my adventurous spirit and love for trying new things. I first tasted shark steak during a beachside vacation, and the experience opened my eyes to a whole new world of culinary possibilities.
Now, whenever I prepare shark steak at home, it brings back memories of salty sea breezes and the thrill of discovering new flavors. The process of marinating the steak, searing it to perfection, and pairing it with bright green peas has become a cherished ritual that never fails to impress dinner guests.
Variations
As a versatile protein, shark steak can be prepared in various ways and paired with different sides:
- Grilled shark steak with mango salsa
- Blackened shark steak with cajun seasoning
- Lemon-herb shark steak
- Shark steak stir-fry
- Shark steak tacos
- Shark steak kebabs
- Shark steak with garlic butter sauce For today’s recipe, we’ll keep it simple with a classic shark steak and peas combination.
How to make shark steak with peas
Ingredients
- 4 shark steaks about 6 oz each
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons butter
These are suggested additions, but feel free to adjust according to your taste:
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add shark steaks and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove shark steaks from marinade and pat dry.
- Cook shark steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove from heat and let rest.
- While the shark is resting, cook the peas. In a medium saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Add peas and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and toss with butter.
- Serve shark steaks with buttered peas on the side. If using optional ingredients, sprinkle capers and parsley over the dish and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Calcium | 4% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Serving and storing
How to eat shark steak with peas
Shark steak is best enjoyed hot off the grill or pan. The meaty texture pairs wonderfully with the soft, buttery peas. A crisp white wine or light beer makes an excellent accompaniment to this dish. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.
How to store shark steak
Cooked shark steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook. The peas can be stored separately and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
How long does shark steak last
When properly stored in the refrigerator, cooked shark steak will last for 3-4 days. For best quality, it’s recommended to consume the dish within 1-2 days of cooking. If you have leftover raw shark steak, it should be cooked or frozen within 1-2 days of purchase. Frozen shark steak can be kept for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Interesting Facts About Shark Steak:
- Culinary Controversy: Shark steak is a controversial dish due to concerns about overfishing and the ecological impact on shark populations.
- Texture and Taste: Shark meat has a firm texture similar to swordfish or chicken. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that some compare to alligator or veal.
- Preparation Methods: Shark steak is often grilled, pan-seared, or baked. It’s typically marinated beforehand to enhance flavor and reduce the meat’s natural ammonia content.
- Mercury Concerns: Shark meat often contains high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to human health if consumed in large quantities or by vulnerable populations.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, such as Iceland, shark meat is considered a delicacy. The Icelandic dish “hákarl” consists of fermented shark meat.
- Nutritional Profile: Shark steak is high in protein and low in saturated fat. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, though in lower quantities than many other fish.
- Legal Status: The sale and consumption of shark meat are regulated in many countries due to conservation efforts and concerns about sustainable fishing practices.
- Urea Content: Sharks retain urea in their flesh, which can give the meat an ammonia-like smell if not properly prepared or stored.
Sources for Shark Steak Information:
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Website: http://www.fao.org/fishery/en This source provides comprehensive information on fisheries, including shark fishing and consumption.
- Marine Conservation Society Website: https://www.mcsuk.org/ Offers insights into the environmental impact of shark fishing and consumption.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Website: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/ Provides scientific data on shark species, fishing practices, and conservation efforts.
- World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Website: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/shark Offers information on shark conservation and the impact of shark fishing.
- Seafood Watch by Monterey Bay Aquarium Website: https://www.seafoodwatch.org/ Provides recommendations on sustainable seafood choices, including information on shark consumption.
- Journal of Food Science and Technology Website: https://www.springer.com/journal/13197 Scientific articles on the nutritional composition and preparation methods of shark meat.
- Environmental Health Perspectives Website: https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/ Offers research on the health implications of consuming shark meat, including mercury content.
- Shark Research Institute Website: https://www.sharks.org/ Provides scientific information on sharks, including their biology and conservation status.
I’ll give it a try 🙂