Florida Keys Recipes
The Florida Keys are well know for spectacular fishing. Islamorada is called the Sportfishing Capitol of the World, everyone knows about Hemingway’s angling exploits around Key West and Zane Grey made Long Key, in the Middle Keys, famous for catching bonefish and tarpon. Today they continue to be two of the most sought after fish in the Florida Keys despite that fact both aren’t considered good table fare. While “Catch & Release” has become standard practice throughout the Florida Keys, we shouldn’t forget there is a bounty of delicious seafood just waiting to please your palate. Whether you have been fishing the waters between Key Largo and Key West and brought home fresh seafood or have picked up your favorites at the local seafood market, the recipes on the following pages are sure to delight.
The Florida Keys enjoy a warm tropical climate and are surrounded by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Florida Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Is is no wonder the local cuisine largely consists of fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Many of the recipes have Bahamian and Caribbean roots with spicey tropical flavors you have come to enjoy.
Following are a sampling of some of my favorite foods. Click on the title or the Category, in the left column, and you will find pages with recipes.
Catch of the Day Fresh Fish
With variety such as; Grouper (including Red, Black, Snowey and Gag among others), Dolphin (also known as Mahi Mahi and Dorado), Mackrel (including Spanish, Cero and King), Yellowfin & Blackfin Tuna, Hogfish (Sometimes listed as Hog Snapper but actually in the Wrasse family, if you see this on the menu or in the seafood market you must try it) and Snapper (including Yellowtail, Mangrove or Grey, Mutton, Red and Schoolmaster) it is no wonder there are so many great seafood recipes to choose from.
Key Lime Pie
The Famous Florida Keys Dessert made from a small tart citrus fruit that is sure to please.
Queen Conch
Pronounced “konk” (like honk) this large sea snail has long been a food staple throughout the Caribbean and Bahamas and is the namesake for local natives and of course the “Conch Republic“.
Florida Lobster
The Florida lobster or Spiny Crawfish (Palinurus argus) is related to crabs, shrimp, and other lobsters. The Florida lobster is caught off the Florida Keys and around the southern tip of the state. They are available fresh from August thru April.
Stonecrab
An increasingly popular seafood availabe from mid October thru Mid May. Only the large claws are harvested and the sweet meat commands a high but worthy price.
Key West Pink Shrimp
Yes, I know you have had shrimp but until you have tried Key West Pink Shrimp you have not yet enjoyed the best shrimp.
Other Fun Foods
Included are some unusual foods such as Aligator and Iguana as well as some just for fun recipes for Key Deer and Manatee.
No tags for this post.Related posts
My brother lived there for a while and got totally addicted to key lime pie. He said he could just walk outside pick some key limes right off the tree and make the best key lime pie in the world- ya thats what I just said- in the world! Thanks for the post. I thouroughly enjoyed it.