CarneAtlas

Espadarte

Fish · Xiphiidae
Espadarte — Xiphiidae fish

Naturalis Biodiversity Center, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Swordfish is a large, fast-swimming ocean predator with firm, meaty, mildly flavored flesh that resembles a pork chop in texture. It is sold as thick steaks and is ideal for grilling or pan-searing. Its low moisture content means it can withstand high heat without falling apart. It is popular across the Mediterranean and in Mexico where it is used in tacos and ceviches.

Names by country

CountryNameNotes
🇺🇸United StatesSwordfish
🇬🇧United KingdomSwordfish
🇲🇽MexicoPez espada
🇦🇷ArgentinaPez espada
🇫🇷FranceEspadon
🇪🇸SpainPez espadaAlso called emperador in Spain and the Canary Islands
🇵🇹PortugalEspadarteprimary
🇧🇷BrazilEspadarte

Culinary substitutes

Tuna

Both are large, meaty ocean fish sold as steaks and suited to grilling — tuna is richer and eaten rare, swordfish is drier and cooked through.

Dorado

Both are firm ocean fish suited to grilling as steaks — mahi-mahi is moister and sweeter, swordfish is drier and more intensely flavored.

Shop

Source this cut

Books

Equipment

Affiliate links — CarneAtlas may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.