Best Monkfish “Lobster” Roll Recipe from Sandwich Experts

You have probably heard of or taken lobster rolls if you are a seafood lover. But have you ever heard of monkfish “lobster” rolls?

Monkfish is similar to lobster in flavor and texture. This underrated fish is often compared to lobster for its meaty texture and sweet flavor. It is an ideal substitute for lobster.

We love a great seafood sandwich! Looking for something fresh? Try Fiskefillet, a Danish fish sandwich with easy homemade remoulade!

Tips for Making the Best Monkfish “Lobster” Roll

Start With the Best Quality Monkfish: The key to success with this recipe is choosing fresh and firm monkfish fillets. They should be free from any discoloration or odors. 

Season to Suit Your Taste: Do not be afraid to add your own spin to the recipe by adjusting the seasonings to suit your preference. Experiment with different herbs and spices until you find your perfect flavor. We love this pacific seafood seasoning by Gustus Vitae!

Get Creative with the Sauce: The recipe calls for a classic mayo-based sauce. However, feel free to try different sauces or toppings. Try a tangy tartar, or spicy aioli sauce.

Serve with a Side of Your Choice: You can pair the monkfish “lobster” rolls with various side dishes. Consider serving it with a side salad, coleslaw, or chips.

sliced raw monkfish on a red plate

Will this recipe work with a different type of fish?

Yes. While this recipe is optimized for monkfish, you can use other firm white fish such as cod, halibut, or haddock. Monkfish has a flavor and texture very similar to that lobster. This is why monkfish is a popular choice for this recipe.

Can I use a different type of bread instead of hot dog buns?

Yes. You can use any type of bread that you prefer. Some popular alternative bread includes brioche rolls and French bread. You can even go vegan and use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

With a few changes, you can make this recipe vegan. All you have to do is to substitute the monkfish with plant-based protein alternatives like tofu, use vegan mayo, and skip the butter.

What’s so special about monkfish?

Monkfish is prized for its tight, meaty white flesh. In fact, most people compare it to lobster meat. The similarity has earned monkfish a nickname as a poor man’s lobster.

Can I freeze the monkfish lobster mixture for later use?

You can freeze the monkfish lobster mixture for later use. Also, it is best practice to label it appropriately with the date. When you finally want to use the monkfish lobster mix, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

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monkfish mix layered in a roll with a side of fries

Monkfish “Lobster” Roll Recipe


  • Author: Mehgan Zheng
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb monkfish, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • 4 hot dog buns
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Cut monkfish into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper or preferred seasoning to taste.
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 20