Whole food · Finfish and Shellfish Products
Photo: Wikipedia
Grouper is a lean, firm-fleshed white fish prized for its mild, sweet flavor and large, tender flakes. With a near-zero fat content and an impressive 19.38g of protein per 100g, it offers a clean, satisfying meal that readily absorbs marinades and seasonings. Its dense texture holds up beautifully to various cooking methods, from grilling to steaming.
People love grouper for its ability to be the perfect canvas for bold flavors—whether in a spicy Caribbean curry or a simple lemon-herb bake—without overpowering the dish. Its substantial, meaty texture provides a satisfying bite that feels both light and hearty.
As a lean fish, grouper can become dry if overcooked, so careful timing is essential. It is a common allergen for those with fish sensitivities. To counteract dryness, cook it to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and consider basting or using a marinade with a touch of oil or fat.
Grouper are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can later change to male as they grow larger and older.
| Water | 79.2 g |
| Energy | 92.0 kcal |
| Energy | 385 kj |
| Protein | 19.4 g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 1.0 g |
| Ash | 1.2 g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 0.00 g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 0.00 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 27.0 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 0.89 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 31.0 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 162 mg |
| Potassium, K | 483 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 53.0 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 0.48 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.02 mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 0.01 mg |
| Selenium, Se | 36.5 ug |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 0.00 mg |
| Thiamin | 0.07 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.01 mg |
| Niacin | 0.31 mg |
| Pantothenic acid | 0.75 mg |
| Vitamin B-6 | 0.30 mg |
| Folate, total | 9.0 ug |
| Folic acid | 0.00 ug |
| Folate, food | 9.0 ug |
| Folate, DFE | 9.0 ug |
| Vitamin B-12 | 0.60 ug |
| Vitamin A, RAE | 43.0 ug |
| Retinol | 43.0 ug |
| Vitamin A, IU | 143 iu |
| Alcohol, ethyl | 0.00 g |
| Fatty acids, total saturated | 0.23 g |
| SFA 4:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 6:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 8:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 10:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 12:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 14:0 | 0.01 g |
| SFA 16:0 | 0.17 g |
| SFA 18:0 | 0.05 g |
| Fatty acids, total monounsaturated | 0.20 g |
| MUFA 16:1 | 0.03 g |
| MUFA 18:1 | 0.14 g |
| MUFA 20:1 | 0.03 g |
| MUFA 22:1 | 0.01 g |
| Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated | 0.32 g |
| PUFA 18:2 | 0.01 g |
| PUFA 18:3 | 0.01 g |
| PUFA 18:4 | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 20:4 | 0.03 g |
| PUFA 20:5 n-3 (EPA) | 0.03 g |
| PUFA 22:5 n-3 (DPA) | 0.01 g |
| PUFA 22:6 n-3 (DHA) | 0.22 g |
| Cholesterol | 37.0 mg |
| Tryptophan | 0.22 g |
| Threonine | 0.85 g |
| Isoleucine | 0.89 g |
| Leucine | 1.6 g |
| Lysine | 1.8 g |
| Methionine | 0.57 g |
| Cystine | 0.21 g |
| Phenylalanine | 0.76 g |
| Tyrosine | 0.65 g |
| Valine | 1.00 g |
| Arginine | 1.2 g |
| Histidine | 0.57 g |
| Alanine | 1.2 g |
| Aspartic acid | 2.0 g |
| Glutamic acid | 2.9 g |
| Glycine | 0.93 g |
| Proline | 0.69 g |
| Serine | 0.79 g |
Is grouper a healthy fish to eat?
Yes, grouper is very healthy. It is low in calories and fat while being an excellent source of high-quality protein and minerals like selenium. It also contains some heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
What does grouper taste like?
Grouper has a mild, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor with a clean, non-fishy taste. Its texture is firm and meaty with large flakes, making it a favorite for those who prefer less 'fishy' seafood.
How do I prevent grouper from drying out?
To keep grouper moist, avoid overcooking. Cook it to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Techniques like baking en papillote (in parchment), steaming, or grilling with a marinade help retain moisture. Patting the fish dry before cooking also promotes better searing.