This is not your typical fish nuggets! Hapuka Nuggets are a variation of fish nuggets, made by coating Hapuka fish fillets in batter and deep-frying them until they are golden brown.
Hapuka, also known as Hake or Groper, is a fish found primarily in the colder waters of the southern hemisphere, particularly around New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and southern South America. It boasts a firm, white, and lean flesh that is mild in flavour and has a slightly sweet taste. This versatile fish can be prepared in various ways such as grilling, baking, frying, or smoking. Additionally, it is often used in fish stews, chowders, and curries because of its delicate and mild flavour.
Not only does Hapuka have a moderate-to-high fat content, but it is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy fish to consume. This fish is also a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, it is considered to be a sustainable fish due to the sustainable management of fish stocks and the fishing methods used.
In New Zealand, Hapuka is a popular fish species, often used in the traditional Maori dish known as “Kai Moana,” which is a seafood platter that usually includes fish, shellfish, and seaweed. Today, we’ll be showcasing a different dish that uses Hapuka, Hapuka Nuggets. These nuggets highlight the delicate, mild flavour and meaty texture of Hapuka with a crispy style batter. Unlike typical fish nuggets, which are often made from processed fish meat, our recipe uses whole chunks of Hapuka meat seasoned only with salt and pepper, to emphasize the natural taste of the fish. The batter simply adds an extra layer of texture to this dish. These nuggets can be served with a variety of sauces, such as sweet chilli, tartare, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.
In conclusion, Hapuka Nuggets are a delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, main course, or even as a side when enjoying an ice-cold beer. They’re simple to make and are sure to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Lightly season hapuka nuggets with salt and pepper. Set it aside.
In a bowl combine all batter ingredients and mix together until smooth. Set it aside.
Heat oil in deep fryer or heavy bottom pot to 180C.
In batches place fish fillets into the batter, coating them completely. Once a batch is done place them one at a time, into hot oil then deep fry until nuggets are crisp and browned all over around 5 to 6 minutes.
Place fried nuggets in a paper towel lined plate to remove excess oil. Once all nuggets are cooked serve with your favourite dipping sauce.
These nuggets look perfect – wonderfully browned and crisp without being oily. I’m not familiar with Hapuka / Groper, but I’m intrigued and will try finding it!
They look beautiful golden brown and crisp!
These sound amazing! I love grouper, even though they’re quite unattractive!
These nuggets look perfect – wonderfully browned and crisp without being oily. I’m not familiar with Hapuka / Groper, but I’m intrigued and will try finding it!
★★★★★
Trust me its one of the meatiest best tasting white fish you will try
My kids enjoy all types of fried fish — these hapuka nuggets look super delicious, and love that it’s using the whole fish and not processed fish.
★★★★★
I’ve never come across Hapuka before, but I do love a firm, white fish. These nuggets look fantastic, Raymund. I’m pretty sure I would love this!!
★★★★★
I have sablefish / black cod which is an oily fish that i imagine I could substitute. I”ve never fried it and just may need to!
Definitely any oily fish would do
I’ve never had fish nuggets though they seem similar to fish and chips — but more alluring! I’ll look forward to trying these!
Easier to eat I suppose and more crispy bits