Chinese Snakeheads Are Surprisingly Delicious To Eat
BALTIMORE (WJZ)— The Chinese Snakehead has been described as a voracious predator of fishes and they are right here in Maryland.
The Snakeheads have razor sharp teeth, a slimy protective coating and are quickly claiming waters across the state.
WJZ's Amy Yensi has more on how a local chef is turning the predator into prey.
Todd Murphy spotted one in Charles County, little did he know, it was the largest one on record in the state of Maryland. Todd said the fish was caught with a bow and arrow and weighed in at 17.47 pounds.
The Snakehead fish, who first showed up in a Crofton pond in 2002, have now made it past their natural barrier and into the Upper Potomac River.
According to the DNR, because of their feeding style, they could outcompete popular sport fish such as largemouth bass, which is why controlling their population is important.
Just last month they were found in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in Potomac Maryland, meaning they found a way upstream, above the natural barrier of Great Falls.
Chad Wells, Executive Chef at Alewife Baltimore is trying to take the so-called "Franken Fish" and turn it into a gourmet fishcake.
"Now they're everywhere. This is the best way to try to reduce that problem is to generate some consumer interest," Wells said.
Wells is the first in our area to add Snakehead to the menu and he even got the scary creature tattooed on his arm!
He says there's many myths surround the "Franken Fish", including it walks on land and it might eat your dog.
The DNR says if you catch a Snakehead, kill it and do not put it back in the water. The best way to beat them is to eat them and that's exactly what Todd plans to do.
Wells says a lot of people are requesting Snakehead and most people are pleasantly surprised.
Try this Blackened Snakehead with Pina Colada Salsa receipe provide by the Maryland DNR.
Blackening seasoning
In a mixing bowl combine the following:
1 1/2 tablespoon paprika
3/4 tablespoon granulated garlic (or 1
tablespoon garlic powder)
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon of kosher salt
This spice works great with all fish, game and poultry for blackening and smoking.
It can also be stored for quite some time.
