published 1986
Reprinted from HFN’s book:
FISH DISHES OF THE PACIFIC …from the FISHWIFE
(Limited copies available from HFN (808) 395-4499)
Let’s stop ignoring the ta‘ape. This blue-lined snapper, which was introduced to Hawaii about 50 years ago, is as colorful as its relatives, easier to catch, less expensive to buy and just as good to eat. The ta‘ape lives closer to shore than other snapper and is caught year-round in great numbers by commercial fishermen, who don’t get as much for such abundant amounts offish. This makes ta‘ape the best buy among the 14 species of snapper found in Hawaii’s waters.
Ta‘ape average ½ to 1 pound, a nice size for cooking whole. It can be fried, poached, steamed, braised, broiled and baked. No matter how it is cooked,…