How to prepare whole fish?

1. Start by cleaning the fish thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any scales, guts, and gills.

2. Pat the fish dry with paper towels and make sure to remove any excess moisture.

3. Score the fish by making shallow cuts on both sides. This will help the fish cook more evenly and allow flavors to penetrate.

4. Season the fish with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. You can also stuff the cavity of the fish with herbs, citrus slices, and garlic for added flavor.

5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill to medium-high heat.

6. If baking, place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

7. If grilling, place the fish directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

8. Serve the whole fish with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a salad. Enjoy!

Step 1: Select and Prepare the Fish

- Choose a fresh, whole fish with clear eyes, red gills, and firm flesh.
- Remove the scales using a sharp knife or a fish scaler.
- Cut off the fins using kitchen shears.

Step 2: Gut and Clean the Fish

- Make a shallow incision along the belly of the fish from the vent to the head.
- Remove the intestines, gills, and any other organs.
- Rinse the fish thoroughly inside and out with cold water.

Step 3: Season and Marinate the Fish (Optional)

- Season the fish inside and out with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
- If desired, marinate the fish in a mixture of herbs, spices, and liquids (e.g., olive oil, lemon juice) for at least 30 minutes.

Step 4: Cooking Method

Grilling:
- Heat a grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the fish with oil and place it on the grill.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Roasting:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the seasoned fish on the baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.

Pan-frying:
- Heat a large skillet with a layer of oil over medium heat.
- Season the fish and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

- Insert a fork or knife into the thickest part of the fish.
- The flesh should be opaque and flake easily when done.
- If the fish is not cooked through, continue cooking for a few more minutes.

Step 6: Serve

- Transfer the cooked fish to a serving platter or plate.
- Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or any desired sides.