Mahi Mahi – All You Need to Know | Instacart’s Guide to Groceries

What is mahi mahi?

Mahi mahi, also called a “dolphinfish” or a dorado, is a surface-dwelling, strong swimming fish with beautiful green and gold coloring. These fish typically live for four to five years and grow to a maximum size of about 30 pounds. The raw flesh is pale pink and lean. After it’s cooked, it turns white and flaky. 

Thanks to its texture, mahi mahi offers a lot of flexibility. It’s thick enough to cook on the grill without falling apart but also tender enough to steam. The flesh is fairly mild tasting and has a bit of sweetness to it. 

Since they grow quickly, are prolific breeders, and can be sustainably caught with a hook and fishing line, mahi mahi is considered an eco-friendly seafood option. It’s important to note that although its nickname is “dolphinfish,” mahi mahi is not a dolphin (porpoise). While mahi mahi is a fish, a dolphin is a mammal. 

Where are mahi mahi found? 

Unlike some other types of fish, mahi mahi is not farm-raised, so wild-caught is the only option. Approximately one-third of the mahi mahi in the United States is caught in the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico. You can find them in the waters spanning from Massachusetts to Texas. The rest of the mahi mahi consumed here comes from the Pacific ocean and is mostly caught near Hawaii. 

When is mahi mahi in season? 

If you’re interested in trying mahi mahi, you’ll be glad to know that it’s typically available year-round. However, the prices fluctuate drastically. The peak season in terms of availability is May through July. During this time, you may find that there’s a larger selection available in the grocery stores and that the prices are a bit lower. 

What should I look for when buying mahi mahi?

When choosing mahi mahi, you’ll have the option of purchasing it frozen, previously frozen, or fresh (never frozen). Frozen mahi mahi is usually sold as skinless, boneless fillets or as skin-on fillets. Fresh mahi mahi is typically offered as skin-on fillets or whole fish that has been gutted and had the head removed (also known as H&G, or “headed and gutted.”)

If you’re looking for maximum shelf life, H&G is your best option. It’s also important to consider whether you may end up freezing your mahi mahi. It’s best not to re-freeze fish, so avoid purchasing previously frozen mahi mahi if you think you’ll need to freeze it again. 

When choosing your mahi mahi, look for flesh that has a pink coloring with no darkness or discoloration. This is most likely to show up around the edge of the fish. Mahi mahi should look moist and shiny, have a firm texture, and smell like a fresh sea breeze. If it feels squishy or has a strong “fishy” smell, it isn’t fresh. In this case, you’ll want to choose a different piece or substitute a different type of fish. 

If you’re planning to have your groceries delivered, you can easily shop for all types of mahi mahi via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products. Shop for fresh mahi mahi filets. 

How to store mahi mahi

To store fresh or previously-frozen mahi mahi, keep it in its original packaging and place it in the coldest part of your refrigerator (usually the bottom drawer). You’ll want to make sure it stays at a temperature of around 32-degrees Fahrenheit and avoid opening it until you’re ready to cook it. Following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your mahi mahi fresh for about two days. 

If you’re not able to cook your mahi mahi within two days, you can freeze it. Just make sure you do it within the two-day time period. To avoid freezer burn, wrap the original packaging in aluminum foil before putting it in the freezer. It can be kept at zero degrees Fahrenheit for up to two months. While it can technically stay in the freezer for longer than that, after two months, the quality will start to deteriorate. 

How to tell if mahi mahi is bad

If you’re wondering whether your mahi mahi is bad, you’ll want to start by taking a close look at it and giving it a sniff. If it’s discolored, has a “slimy” coat on it, or has become mushy, these are all signs that your fish is past its prime. Fresh mahi mahi also should not have a “fishy” smell or smell like ammonia. If you notice anything that seems “off,” it’s best to discard the fish. 

When dealing with frozen mahi mahi, you’ll want to keep an eye out for freezer burn. This is typically indicated by white spots or ice crystals forming on the fish. While freezer burn doesn’t mean that the fish is spoiled, it can impact the quality and taste. 

What can I substitute for mahi mahi? 

Mahi mahi has a denseness that’s similar to swordfish and flakiness that’s similar to halibut. For this reason, if you can’t get your hands on mahi mahi, you can substitute swordfish or halibut instead. 

Add mahi mahi to your next shopping list

If you’re thinking about trying mahi mahi, now is a great time! Just find a recipe that looks tasty, then head over to Instacart.com and add all the ingredients to your shopping list. Then, all you need to do is wait for a professional shopper to bring your grocery delivery right to your door. It doesn’t get any easier than that! 

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