Rockfish Vs Red Snapper: Are They the Same?

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Pacific rockfish, also known as pacific snapper, is a very versatile fish that might sometimes be confused with red snapper. This is due to the similar appearance of some of their varieties. Rockfish is incredibly delicious seafood that can be fried, grilled, steamed, or consumed raw.

The possibilities are endless with this near-shore fish commonly found on North America’s west coast. It blends well into any recipe that doesn’t call for a specific type of fish.

Pacific rockfish is popularly used in Asian and American cuisines; this firm, lean, and mild-flavored white-fleshed fish have several varieties that may taste slightly different.

Rockfish’s lookalike from another species, “red snapper,” is another delicious seafood with a decadent but subtle taste and intricate texture.

It might be easy to tell the difference between rockfish vs red snapper if you are a true fish lover, but if it’s your first time trying them out, get an insight into what separates them from each other in this article.

Both fishes are discussed extensively, so you know which you should probably go for next time you’re out that fancy restaurant or trying to make homemade dinner; either way, enjoy!

What Is Red Snapper?

Red snapper is s very popular white fish found worldwide but mostly found in the Gulf of Mexico and Indonesia.

Red snappers can grow as large as 35 pounds, unlike most fishes that are quite smaller. They are readily available whole or sliced into fillets.

Whole fish are usually between 2 to 5 pounds. When purchasing a whole red snapper, ensure it is fresh and of good condition by inspecting its eye, which should be clear with bright red skin that fades towards the belly.

If purchasing fillets, go for those with their skin still intact; this will help identify if the fish is red snapper or not and hold the fish together as you fry or grill.

This fish is a great source of vitamin D and omega-three fatty acids that helps to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, dementia, and joint pain.

Its rich selenium content helps fight against free radicals and lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Red snapper has high iron levels, which is essential for anemic people, and it also gives the fish a meaty taste. Other nutrients it contains include; phosphorus, calcium, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin D, and niacin, which are all beneficial for the body.

However, red snappers should be consumed with caution because they contain high levels of mercury that exceed FDA guidelines.

Pregnant women and children are advised to keep their red snapper consumption not more often than one serving per month, as they carry the risk of causing developmental issues in fetuses or young brains.

What Is Pacific Rockfish? 

Rockfish is commonly found in the Pacific Ocean and has over 70 different varieties of different sizes. Rockfish can be as small as two pounds but can also grow as large as 40 pounds.

This fish has a medium-firm flesh that is mild tasting and has a flakey texture; this, however, limits the ideal cooking techniques and flavoring options suitable for it; red snapper is mostly poached or spiced up and fried.

This gets the fish its place as a supermarket staple available year-round.

Rockfish Vs Red Snapper: Are They the Same?

No, rockfish and red snapper are not the same. They are fishes from different species and habitats, but some of their varieties look closely similar to each other and can make it hard to tell them apart.

It’s not uncommon for them to be incorrectly labeled “snapper.” Rockfish, while tasty, do not have anywhere near as fine a flavor as real red snapper, which only lives in the Atlantic Ocean. Rockfish also is frequently sold whole or scaled and gutted.

According to Michael Wagner, owner of Seafood Specialties in Ventura,

All rockfish are in the same family, and they all taste essentially the same. They only differ from the firmness of the fillet.

Let’s look at an overview of both fishes, answering some common questions you may have to give you a better insight into the fishes without having to taste them.

What Is Rockfish Similar To?

Compared to other saltwater fish species, rockfish is the closest to sea bass and striped bass, and perch. 

What Fish Is Most Similar To Red Snapper?

Red snapper is similar to a handful of other fish, including;

What Does Red Snapper Taste Like?

Red snapper is moist and soft textured, with a mild, slightly sweet taste that compliments any kind of flavors it is combined with. Red snapper is very versatile and can be used in many different ways and recipes.

What Does Rockfish Taste Similar To?

Rockfish is a popular white fish with a subtle flavor and lean texture. It fits into any recipe needing a fish without specifying a specific type.

Its firm texture and easily-adaptable flavor profile make the Alaskan rockfish blend into any dish and are a particular favorite in American and Asian cuisines.

Rockfish have a low oil content, which gives them a light and flaky texture and an intense flavor that is slightly sweet and nutty.

This fish is not only delicious but has high nutritional value with 78% protein, generous amounts of vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids.

It is also low in carbohydrates fat and contains few calories– about 90 calories per 100 grams of raw serving size.

Rockfish gives your body its needed supply of protein and other nutrients without adding inches to your waistline or tasting super flaky and bland.

What Is Another Name For Red Snapper?

There is a list of other common English language names for red snapper, including sow snapper, mule snapper, American red snapper, Caribbean red snapper, and Mexican red snapper. It is also known in Spanish as Boca Negra or chili.

What Is Another Name For Rockfish?

Another name for rockfish includes pacific rockfish, rock cod, red snapper, or pacific snapper.

Why Are They Called Rockfish?

Rockfish is a blanket name for several different species of fish, typical of hiding among rocks. There are different species of fish labeled as rockfish and are usually used for food.

Some type of fish is usually from the family sebastidae as well as the family Scorpaenidae; they all fall under this category.

Why Are They Called Red Snapper?

They are called red snappers because of the red appearance of their skin and scales, as well as a pair of red eyes.

Red snapper also has pointed rear fins with triangular-shaped heads. This fish has a protruding lower jaw it uses to catch its prey.