Charred Monkfish Kebabs with Thai Herb Noodle Salad

This dish brings together the meaty luxury of monkfish and the bright, electric energy of a Thai-style noodle salad. It feels polished and restaurant-worthy, with smoky caramelized fish, cool herbs, and a lime-chili dressing that makes every bite vivid and memorable.
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Method
- Step 1: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes. Bring a pot of water to a boil, cook the rice vermicelli according to package directions, then drain and rinse under cold water. Toss lightly with a few drops of neutral oil to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Make the dressing and marinade base by whisking together the juice of 2 limes, fish sauce, soy sauce, tamarind concentrate, brown sugar, honey, sambal oelek, grated ginger, minced garlic, and toasted sesame oil. Reserve about half in a large mixing bowl for the noodle salad.
- Step 3: Pat the monkfish dry and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss the monkfish pieces with 2 tablespoons of the remaining dressing mixture and let marinate for 10 to 15 minutes only. Do not marinate too long or the lime will start to cure the fish.
- Step 4: Thread the monkfish onto skewers, alternating with pieces of red bell pepper, zucchini, and trimmed scallion segments. Brush with neutral oil.
- Step 5: Heat a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat, or preheat the oven broiler. Cook the kebabs for 8 to 12 minutes total, turning every 2 to 3 minutes, until the monkfish is just opaque, lightly charred at the edges, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Step 6: Build the noodle salad by adding the cooked vermicelli, red cabbage, carrot, cucumber, bean sprouts, cilantro, and mint to the large bowl with the reserved dressing. Toss thoroughly so the noodles absorb the dressing evenly.
- Step 7: Plate the noodle salad in shallow bowls or on a platter, creating height with the herbs and vegetables. Lay the hot monkfish kebabs over the top or alongside, then finish with chopped roasted peanuts and any extra herbs. Serve immediately with lime wedges if desired.
Serving suggestion
Quick smashed cucumber salad with extra lime, mint, and a pinch of chili
Off-dry Riesling or a lemongrass gin highball
Cook this with Savi