Smoked Mullet
Disposable turkey roasting pans from the supermarket are great for brining the fish. If you can't find mullet in your area, try mackerel, bluefish, amberjack, or even salmon--lower the smoking time for fillets rather than split fish.
How to Make It
Step 1
Rinse fish.
Step 2
Combine 1 gal. water and next 4 ingredients in a large bowl, stirring until salt dissolves. Add mullet; cover and chill 45 minutes to 2 hours or to desired degree of saltiness. (Cut off a small piece of fish, and fry it to determine degree of saltiness by tasting. Longer soak times yield saltier fish.)
Step 3
Rinse fish, discarding brine mixture; pat fish dry with paper towels. Place fish on wire racks in roasting pans; cover with paper towels, and chill 2 to 3 hours or until dry. Rub 1 tsp. pepper on both sides of each fish.
Step 4
Soak wood chips in water at least 30 minutes.
Step 5
Prepare charcoal fire in smoker; let burn 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 6
Drain chips, and place on coals. Place water pan in smoker; add water to depth of fill line.
Step 7
Place fish on upper and lower food racks; cover with smoker lid. (If smoking fillets, place skin sides down on racks.)
Step 8
Cook 2 hours or just until fish flakes easily with a fork. Garnish, if desired. Serve with saltines, hot sauce, and lemon wedges, if desired.
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