Fish shops in Philadelphia's West and North Philadelphia, Brooklyn, Harlem, and Chicago's South Side built entire neighborhood economies around it. The $3 whiting sandwich is a rite of passage.
What it does
Whiting is one of the leanest fish proteins available. Low mercury makes it safe for frequent consumption.
How it is cooked
Thin fillets cook fast — 3-4 minutes per side pan-fried, 12-15 minutes baked at 400°F. Season with hot sauce, lemon, Old Bay, and black pepper.