Mahi-mahi

Mahi-mahi, also known as dolphinfish (no relation to dolphins), is a large, fast-growing tropical fish found in warm ocean waters around the world. The flesh is firm, lean, and mildly sweet, with a clean flavour that appeals to people who don’t typically enjoy strong-tasting fish. When cooked, it flakes into large, moist pieces.

It’s a popular fish in Australian seafood restaurants, particularly in tropical Queensland, where it’s often served grilled or pan-fried with citrus or tropical fruit salsas. The firm texture means it holds together well on the barbecue, making it an excellent choice for outdoor cooking. It also works well in tacos, curries, and ceviche.

Mahi-mahi is a fast-growing species with a short lifespan, which generally makes it a more resilient choice compared to slower-growing fish. It’s available fresh and frozen in Australian fishmongers and supermarkets, particularly during the warmer months.

Wild
photograph to come — from twenty years of markets, farms and kitchens

How it's made

Mahi-mahi are caught wild in tropical and subtropical waters, primarily using longline fishing and trolling methods. They’re an open-ocean fish that tends to congregate around floating debris and weed lines. Once caught, the fish are bled, gutted, and chilled on ice immediately to maintain flesh quality. They’re typically sold as skinless fillets or steaks, with the thick skin removed before sale.

Nutrition (per 100g)

Energy 85kcal
Protein 18.5g
Carbs 0g
Fat 0.7g
Fibre 0g Sugar 0g
Mass Distribution

1 fillet is about 204 g — roughly 170 kcal of this.

What it costs the planet (per kilo)

Carbon ≈5.12kg
Freshwater ≈3515.02L
Land ≈3.72

≈ Estimated — worked out from a category-typical value further up its supply chain. Where this comes from →

Where it comes from

In the kitchen

Used as

versatile lean fish fillet

Goes well with
Classic dishes
  • Mahi-mahi tacos
  • Blackened mahi-mahi
  • Hawaiian poke
  • Grilled mahi with mango salsa

Keeping one at home? Track yours in your cubud →

Where this data comes from

Nutrition data from

USDA

How it was calculated

SR Legacy

Full credits, licences, and methods: the sources page →

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