Halibut belongs to the pleuronectidae family and is the largest of the flatfish. Widespread in the Atlantic and North Pacific, it is particularly suitable for human consumption thanks to its dense texture, delicate flavor and low fat content. It is possible to cook it in different ways, although it is often preferred to cook it on the grill because this method brings out the typical delicacy of white fish. Characterized by low fat and a flavor that goes well with many herbs, spices and marinades, learning how to grill it is easy. All you need is a few small tips to prepare an exquisite dish.
Steps
Step 1. Buy halibut fillet at the supermarket or fish shop
Look for firm fillets that don't give off a strong fishy smell. Also remember that thicker fillets require longer cooking times
Step 2. Choose your toppings or marinades
Halibut fillet goes well with any type of herb or spice, so you can season it however you like. To make a simple and tasty marinade, mix in lemon or lime juice, parsley, pepper, oil, and any other seasonings you like
Step 3. Drizzle the fillet with marinade or oil
If you leave the fillet to marinate in the refrigerator for an hour before grilling, the meat will be moist and tender when cooked. If you'd rather avoid using marinade, sprinkle each side of the fillet with oil before setting it on the grill
Step 4. Prepare the grill by lightly greasing it with cooking oil
Vegetable oil, such as canola or olive oil, is recommended for grilling halibut. If the grill dries out before cooking is done, add more oil, especially if you have decided not to use any marinades
Step 5. Grill the fillet over medium-high heat for 7-10 minutes per side
If the fillet is more than 3 cm thick, grill it for about 15 minutes per side
Step 6. Sprinkle the fillet with marinade or oil during cooking to keep it moist and juicy
Step 7. Check that the fillet is cooked by flaking it lightly with a fork
Step 8. Serve hot topping with fresh lemon juice or your favorite sauce
Advice
- Low in sodium and fat, but rich in nutrients, proteins and omega fatty acids, grilled halibut is a great dish for those who want to eat healthy.
- Avoid grilling it more than necessary to keep it moist and juicy. It will be ready once you can easily flake it using a fork.
- Try eating grilled halibut fillet without seasoning or marinating. The fish, simply flavored by the oil and the heat of the grill, will be good even so.
- Try grilling it alongside vegetables to intensify the flavor. Grill the halibut for about 5 minutes before adding the vegetables, so they don't cook more than necessary.
Warnings
- Make sure the fillet has been grilled well before serving. If it has a chewy texture or doesn't flake easily, keep cooking it until it starts to chip.
- If you grill the fillet using a charcoal barbecue, keep an eye on it to prevent it from burning. Charcoal barbecues usually get hot and speed up cooking.
