The Strategy
Making a few shallow cuts along the sides of a whole snapper helps the heat and seasonings reach deep into the thickest parts of the fish. Roasting it on a rack in a hot oven ensures the air circulates all around, keeping the meat tender and the skin crisp. It's a beautiful, rustic way to cook fish that never fails to impress a crowd.
Technique Summary
Roasting scored whole fish allows seasonings to penetrate deeply and ensures even cooking in a high-heat oven. Stamping the cavity with herbs and citrus keeps the interior moist.
Chef’s Checkpoints
- The flesh inside the scored cuts should look completely opaque and flake easily.
- The skin should appear blistered and feel dry and firm to the touch.