Seafood lovers, rejoice! Black drum, a mild-flavored fish rich in nutrients and flavor, is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored. With its firm texture and versatility in cooking methods, it’s no wonder why black drum has become a staple in many seafood enthusiasts’ pantries. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of black drum recipes, featuring 20 mouth-watering dishes that showcase its unique flavor profile.
From classic preparations like grilled black drum with lemon garlic butter to more adventurous options like black drum tacos with mango salsa and crispy fried black drum with tartar sauce, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment with new recipes, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the many ways you can prepare black drum, from simple weeknight meals to special occasion feasts.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking and discover the delicious world of black drum recipes!
Grilled Black Drum with Lemon Garlic Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of black drum with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the black drum fillets.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the fish for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Blackened Black Drum with Cajun Spices
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this spicy blackened drum recipe, perfectly seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices. A delicious and flavorful dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Brush both sides of the drum fillets with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the Cajun spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Black Drum with Herb Butter Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the rich flavor of black drum. Pan-searing and a flavorful herb butter sauce elevate this dish to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season black drum fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tbsp butter to the preheated pan; sear fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, chives, and garlic.
5. Serve black drum with herb butter sauce spooned over the top.
6. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Drum Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this unique fusion dish that combines the richness of black drum fish with the sweetness of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Black Drum:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season black drum fillets with cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil on the fish and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir well.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing black drum on tortilla and topping with mango salsa. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Baked Black Drum with Parmesan Crust
This recipe brings out the best of black drum fish by pairing its flaky texture with a crispy, cheesy crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the black drum fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
5. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the top of each fish fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Drum Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
A refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the tender flesh of black drum fish with the brightness of lime juice, the zest of cilantro, and a hint of saltiness. Perfect for warm weather or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade black drum fillet, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the black drum pieces and lime juice.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidity of the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro, kosher salt, and black pepper.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Black Drum Piccata with White Wine Sauce
This Mediterranean-inspired dish showcases the tender flavor of black drum fillets, paired with a rich and tangy white wine sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the fish with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge fillets in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add fish to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove fish from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium. Add white wine and chicken broth to the skillet, whisking to combine.
7. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Stir in butter until melted. Serve sauce over black drum fillets. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Drum Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade
A classic Louisiana po’ boy sandwich gets a seafood twist with black drum, crispy fried and served on toasted bread with creamy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb black drum fillet
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 po’ boy bread buns
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Cut black drum fillet into thin strips.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dredge fish strips in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with flour mixture again.
5. Fry coated fish strips in hot oil until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Assemble po’ boys by placing fried fish on toasted bread buns and topping with remoulade sauce, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Black Drum with Tomato Basil Relish
This recipe showcases the rich flavor of black drum paired with a bright and tangy tomato basil relish, making for a delightful seafood dinner. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (cherry, grape, and heirloom), halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season black drum fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear fish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Transfer fish to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until flaky.
5. Meanwhile, combine tomatoes, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve black drum with tomato basil relish spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Fried Black Drum with Tartar Sauce
A classic Southern dish gets a crispy twist! This recipe yields a flavorful and crunchy black drum, perfect for serving with a tangy tartar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each black drum fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the black drum for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with tartar sauce and lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total.
Black Drum en Papillote with Vegetables
Savor the rich flavor of black drum paired with a medley of colorful vegetables, all wrapped in parchment paper for an easy and impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 medium tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine onion, garlic, bell peppers, zucchinis, and tomatoes.
3. Place a black drum fillet on each piece of parchment paper (about 18″ x 13″).
4. Divide the vegetable mixture evenly among the four pieces of parchment paper, placing it on one half of each sheet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the other half of the parchment paper over the fish and vegetables, creating a tight seal.
7. Place the packets in a single layer in a baking dish and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Drum Chowder with Bacon and Corn
This hearty chowder combines the rich flavors of black drum fish, smoky bacon, and sweet corn, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound black drum fish, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the diced bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the black drum fish pieces, clam juice, and corn kernels to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Drum with Brown Butter and Almonds
A rich and nutty dish that elevates the flavor of black drum fish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the black drum fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add the almonds and cook until lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the black drum fillets to the skillet, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 2-3 minutes or until browned.
6. Flip the fish over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and drizzle with brown butter (see below).
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Brown Butter:
– In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1 tbsp of butter over low heat.
– Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Drum Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
This flavorful stir-fry showcases the tender black drum fish, paired with aromatic ginger and savory soy sauce. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb black drum fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the black drum pieces; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the fish and stir to coat.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Drum Stuffed with Crabmeat Dressing
Impress your guests with this flavorful and elegant seafood dish, featuring tender black drum stuffed with a rich crabmeat dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, breadcrumbs, and butter until well combined.
3. Season the black drum fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each fillet with the crabmeat dressing, dividing it evenly among the four fillets.
5. Place the stuffed fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serves: 4
Black Drum with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavor of black drum with a sweet and smoky roasted red pepper sauce, creating a delightful and flavorful seafood dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Roast red bell peppers in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove peppers from the oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discard seeds, and chop into small pieces.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add black drum fillets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Stir in chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve black drum with roasted red pepper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Drum Scampi with Garlic and White Wine
This classic Italian-inspired dish elevates the flavor of black drum fish with a rich garlic butter sauce, white wine, and parsley. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the fish under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
4. Add white wine to the saucepan; simmer for 2 minutes or until reduced by half.
5. Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the garlic butter sauce evenly over each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Drum with Lemon Caper Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this zesty and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the black drum fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the black drum fillets, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. While the fish is cooking, combine lemon juice and capers in a small bowl.
6. Serve the black drum with the Lemon Caper Sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Drum and Shrimp Jambalaya
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty jambalaya dish, combining tender black drum, succulent shrimp, and a medley of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb black drum, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add black drum; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Drum with Creamy Dill Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavor of black drum fish with a tangy and refreshing creamy dill sauce, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 black drum fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the black drum fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Line a baking sheet with cooking spray or oil. Place the fish fillets on the sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the fish is baking, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped dill, and lemon juice in a bowl.
6. Once the fish is done, remove from the oven and top each fillet with the creamy dill sauce.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of black drum with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic dishes like Pan-Seared Black Drum with Herb Butter Sauce and Grilled Black Drum with Lemon Garlic Butter, to innovative twists like Black Drum Tacos with Mango Salsa and Black Drum Stuffed with Crabmeat Dressing, there’s something for every seafood lover. Discover the perfect way to prepare your black drum, whether it’s baked, grilled, pan-seared, or more. With a range of flavors and textures to explore, you’ll never get bored with these delicious recipes!
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