Frying Black Grouper

• Frying black grouper gives you a nice, crunchy exterior to contrast with the moist, firm flesh of the fish. Season the fish fillets with a salt and black pepper, dredge them in a mixture of egg and milk and coat both sides of the fillets with breading. Add several inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed saute pan and heat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the grouper for 6 to 8 minutes without turning it. Once it's golden brown, transfer the fish to a platter lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with a little extra salt while the fish is still warm.

Grilling Grouper Fillets

• Whether you have steaks or fillets, grouper is a standout fish for cooking on the grill. Let the grouper warm up for approximately 30 minutes before grilling it to promote even cooking. If you decide to marinate the grouper, do so for 30 minutes or less to prevent the marinade from affecting the texture of the fish. Lightly brush both sides of the fish with olive oil and season it with salt, pepper and paprika. Grill the grouper on a hot grill heated to medium-high for 10 minutes for each inch of thickness. Turn the grouper once to sear both sides. Serve grilled grouper with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley and thyme.

Blackening the Fish

• Blackened grouper is a specialty throughout most of Florida, particularly when it's served as a zesty sandwich with lettuce and tomato. Heat a heavy-bottomed or cast iron skillet on high heat. Melt some butter or heat cooking oil until it shimmers before adding grouper fillets that have been dredged in blackening spices. Use a commercial blend or make your own by combining garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dry thyme, dry mustard and salt. Sear the fish for 4 minutes on each side, or until the flesh is firm, opaque and flakes lightly when you test it with a fork. Serve the blackened grouper with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes, such as French fries, potato chips or coleslaw.

Pan-Roasting Black Grouper

• Create a flavorful main dish by pan roasting grouper that you've seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear the black grouper fillets in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until the flesh is firm and opaque. Take the fish out of the pan and place it on your serving platter. Add aromatics such as onion and garlic to the pan and cook them until they’re tender and golden. Add liquid, such as seafood broth, tomato sauce or wine. Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to loosen any flavorful bits stuck on the bottom and bring the mixture to a boil. Simmer it for 5 minutes and drizzle it over your grouper fillets before serving.