Leopard sharks are a small, abundant shark species commonly found along the Pacific coast of North America. While they are often caught as bycatch in commercial fisheries or targeted by sport anglers, many are unaware that leopard sharks are edible fish. In this definitive guide, we explore can you eat leopard sharks, and the ins and outs of harvesting, preparing and cooking these untapped edible sharks.
Are leopard sharks good to eat?
The short answer is yes – leopard sharks are considered edible and are perfectly safe to eat. Their meat is lean, mild-flavored, and has a firm but flaky texture when cooked properly. According to experts, leopard shark compares favorably to popular edible fish like cod or halibut in terms of taste and texture.
While leopard sharks inhabit the same coastal waters as the larger, potentially dangerous white sharks, leopard sharks themselves pose no threat. As docile ambush predators, leopard sharks are not dangerous to divers or swimmers. Their maximum size is only around 5 feet long and 18 pounds, making them one of the smallest shark species.
Preparing Leopard Sharks for the Table
As opportunistic feeders that eat crabs, squid, small fish, and octopuses, leopard sharks accumulate very little fat or mercury in their systems. This makes their meat clean and safe to consume regularly. Here are the basic steps to prepare a freshly caught leopard shark:
- Bleed the shark: Insert a knife just behind the gills on both sides of the shark to sever the major blood vessels and allow the blood to drain. This improves flavor and texture.
- Remove fins and tail: These parts are inedible on sharks as they contain connective tissues and gristly cartilage.
- Fillet the shark: Starting at the tail, use a sharp fillet knife to remove paper-thin fillets from each side of the body.
- Remove skin: Peel the skin off each fillet in one piece for cleaner fillets.
- Wash fillets thoroughly in cold water.
- Pat dry fillets and store on ice or refrigerate until ready to cook. Fillets will keep fresh for 3-5 days.
Also Read: Leopard Shark Size and Weight
Cooking Methods for Leopard Shark Fillets
There are several tasty ways to prepare leopard shark fillets at home once they have been cleaned and portioned. Here are some popular cooking methods:
Grill or pan-sear: Leopard shark fillets take on a nice char when grilled or pan-seared. Season fillets simply with salt and pepper before cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until opaque and flaky.
Bake: Coat fillets in a light breading or panko crumbs before baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. This method results in a tender, moist texture.
Broil: Arrange fillets directly under the broiler for 5-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
Fry: Cut fillets into 1-inch strips or nuggets for crispy fried shark. Toss in batter or breading before shallow frying until golden brown.
Chowder or stew: Dice cooked fillets and add to creamy chowders, fish stews, or curries for an extra hit of lean protein.
Summary
So in summary – yes, leopard sharks are edible fish found in abundant numbers along the Pacific coast. When handled properly from catch to cooking, their mild, flaky white meat makes for a delicious and sustainable seafood choice.
