Tilapia Fish 

History

The tilapia fish has a fascinating history dating back over 4,500 years. Tilapia was the food of kings and pharaohs. Legends claim that tilapia is the fish believed to have been caught by the disciple Peter. In addition, it is also believed that the tilapia fish was what Jesus Christ used to feed the multitudes.

Tilapia has been caught wild as well as farm-raised in Central and South America for over 2,500 years. Weighing about 1-2 pounds each, these small fish offer a source of quality, low-fat protein with a simply outstanding flavor.

Reports estimate that 1 billion pounds of this exotic treat are produced every year. However, unlike other exotic species, the tilapia fish is not in danger of being over fished. Through stringent quality-control measures and careful farming practices, we can enjoy this sweet-tasting treat for years to come.

Tilapia Gourmet 

Today tilapia is one of the new, exciting species arriving in restaurants and homes across the US. With an exotic and ancient past, tilapia is native to the Nile River, Africa, and Asia. Tilapia has a long history of feeding pharaohs and kings. Now farm-raised in Central and South America, tilapia is flown in daily. We're sure you’ll enjoy this mild, sweet-tasting fish. There is an abundance of tilapia recipes to choose from because the tilapia fish is versatile and takes seasonings well. We recommend you try grilled tilapia for a real treat.

Tilapia is extremely versatile and can be baked, broiled, fried, sautéed, or poached. You'll want to be sure and try grilled tilapia, too. Cook tilapia fish for approximately 10 minutes per inch of thickness in a 450-degree oven, or for approximately 3-4 minutes per side on a grill.

To test for doneness when cooking any fish, insert a fork at the thickest point of the fish. Perfectly cooked fish is nearly opaque, should be very moist, and will flake easily with a fork. Fish that looks slightly dry is overcooked. Undercooked fish will look translucent and raw. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature in the center of the fillet should reach 145 degrees F.

Fresh tilapia can be safely refrigerated for up to three days. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying. If you prefer, you can place them in a plastic food storage bag or airtight container and freeze them for up to four months.

Tilapia Recipes

Spicy Grilled Tilapia with Grits and Mushroom Scallion Sauce

Moroccan-Style Tilapia with Cumin, Mango and Cilantro

Brown Sugar Glazed Tilapia

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