Smoking Some Mullet

Smoking some Mullet

Ok folks we're preparing what's called 'Biloxi Bacon' or smoked mullet.

Smoked mullet is popular in Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and beyond.
Mullet is considered a trash fish, not worth catching.

Think again, click and read links for more info.
The mullet looks dried out but trust me it was not.

Keep skins on mullet fillets so flesh stays intact through process.
A lot of time the mullet fillets are butterflied.
My fish market probably isn't aware of this fact.
Brine mullet fillets overnight in water, sea salt, brown sugar,
pepper, cayenne, and other spices of your choice.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Next day I drain the brine and pat the mullet fillets dry.

Place skin side down on an open grid rack with a fan blowing on fillets
skin side down. Let sit for at least an hour or more to develop a pellicle.
It's been 45 minutes and already showing signs of a pellicle.

When pellicle is sufficiently developed,
I brush fillets with melted butter or olive oil and

sprinkle with thyme and paprika.
On to the smoker they go, can't wait to see how they turn out.
You know I'm going to be making some mullet dip today for sure.