Sheepshead
Archosargus probatocephalus · Fish
Top 10 pairings
The sheepshead (Archosargus probatocephalus) is a deep-bodied marine fish of the porgy family (Sparidae), found along the western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts. Famous for its broad, human-like incisors and bold black vertical bars, it yields firm, sweet, shellfish-flavoured white fillets prized by inshore anglers.
Picking a good onedrag
Just cut: glossy, firm, clean of the seaOff: soft, sour, the dent stays
Counter freshBuy itCook to 63 C / 145 F inside. Sold previously frozen, the bloodline and firmness can lag, but it must still smell fresh and mild.
Cut faceMoist and white, a little less gloss
Press the fleshLess elastic, still springs back
SmellMild and neutral, the sea note gone quiet
How it is keptRefrigerated, or on a thick bed of fresh ice