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Have you ever tried cooking halibut? If so, you probably ended up with something either too dry, overcooked, or not for everyone’s taste. But how do you properly cook halibut without worrying about it drying out?
Four minutes per side is all you need for a perfectly cooked halibut that’s moist, tender, and bursting with flavor.
If you would like to know how to cook halibut without drying it out:, then stick around for a bit.
What Is Halibut?
Halibut is a type of flatfish that is one of the largest flatfishes globally and can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh up to 700 pounds.
Due to their unique shape, halibut have both an eye on each side of their body; as juveniles, one eye moves to the other side so that both eyes are on the same side. Halibut has a mild flavor and a firm texture without being too chewy.
They are suitable for many cooking styles, from grilling and pan-frying to baking on parchment paper. Halibut can be served with a sauce or topped with breadcrumbs after cooking.
So why should you eat halibut?
Halibut is an excellent source of protein, which helps keep your body strong and healthy.
In addition, halibut is rich in vitamins B6 and B12, phosphorous, magnesium, selenium, niacin, potassium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
How To Cook Halibut Without Drying It Out (Step-By-Step)
Halibut is an excellent choice for the grill because it’s firm and won’t fall apart like other white fish. However, it’s easy to dry out, so you have to take extra care to avoid overcooking it.
But there are tricks you can use to ensure your halibut comes out perfectly every time. Here’s how:
1. Prepare The Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you have a gas grill, medium-high is the way.
If you’re using charcoal, spread the coals evenly over the bottom of the grill and let them burn down until they form a layer of white ash, as in this photo.
See Also: Halibut Vs Cod Fish
2. Prepare The Fish
Rub olive oil on either side of the fish.
Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
3. Grill The Fish
The fish should be on the hottest side of the grill. Cover and cook for about 4 minutes per side until just cooked through (at 145°F).
4. Remove And Serve
The last and the most important thing is to serve immediately. Most people do with a lemon wedge. You can add salt and pepper to make it tasty if you like.
Related Questions
Can You Eat Halibut Raw?
Raw fish is not safe to eat as it can contain harmful parasites and bacteria that your body can’t digest. To avoid food poisoning, make sure your fish is fully cooked before eating it.
How Do You Make Halibut Taste Good?
If you’re looking for a simple way to make halibut taste better, season it with herbs. A classic halibut preparation is to pan-fry it in olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle it with fresh parsley, thyme, or basil.
Try seasoning your halibut fillets with some onion powder and dill if you want to take things up a notch. Add some minced garlic and paprika for a seasoned crust that adds great flavor without overpowering the fish for a more flavorful dish.
How Long Should I Sear My Halibut?
Sear for 30 seconds on each side. Any longer, and you start to dry out the fish.
How Do I Know When It’s Done?
The best way to tell if your halibut is done is to touch it with a fork — if it flakes, it’s ready! You can also use the “poke test”: poke your finger into the thickest part of the fillet, hold it there for 10 seconds, and then release. If the indentation stays, your fish is done! If not, be patient a bit.
Is Halibut Healthy?
Halibut is low in fat and high in protein, so it works great if you’re trying to lose weight or control your cholesterol levels!
See Also: Flounder Vs Halibut Fish
Conclusion
As you can see, cooking fish to perfection isn’t rocket science, and it’s a pretty forgiving process. Cooking halibut well doesn’t have to be an intimidating or complicated task; follow these tips and end up with a perfectly cooked halibut meal every time.
To continue with the halibut theme, I’d like to dispel a myth about this delicate fish. You don’t have to overcook halibut to make it tender. Using this cooking technique, you’ll find that your halibut will be moist and delicious every time.
