Best Poached Fish Recipe
Ahoy, fish enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will take your taste buds on a joyride? Today, we’re diving deep into the world of Asian cuisine with the best poached fish recipe on the internet that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you fancy a hint of Asia, a splash of beer, or the rich decadence of butter, we’ve got you covered.
Poaching 101: The Basics
Before we set sail, let’s talk about the best fish for poaching. Think of fish with a firm texture and mild flavour, like mahi mahi, Chilean sea bass, cod, and halibut. These fish hold up well in poaching liquids and absorb flavours beautifully. Now, let’s dive into our treasure chest of ingredients!
Ingredients for the Best Poached Fish Recipe
- 4 fillets of firm white fish like White Sardine (also known as Veloori or Silver Fish) from FreshToHome. Our fish are formalin & ammonia free and directly sourced from fisherfolk, guaranteeing you the freshest delicacy possible!
- 1 cup beer (for a boozy twist)
- 2 cups fish or vegetable stock
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp chilli flakes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for the Best Poached Fish Recipe
- Liquid Wonderland: In a large, deep pan, combine the beer, fish stock, buttermilk, and coconut milk. This might sound like a crazy combo, but trust us—it’s magic in the making!
- Spice It Up: Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, chilli flakes, and lemon slices to the pan. Bring this aromatic bath to a gentle simmer.
- Butter Business: Stir in the butter until it melts and blends with the poaching liquid. This adds a luxurious richness, perfect for butter poached fish fans.
- Fish In a Hot Tub: Season your fish fillets with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently slide them into the simmering liquid. Let them poach for about 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Final Flourish: Carefully remove the poached fish and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle a bit of the poaching liquid over the top, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for that pop of colour and freshness.
Variations to Keep You Hooked
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to ensure you never get bored with your poaching prowess.
Asian Poached Fish
For an Asian twist, replace the buttermilk with more coconut milk and add a dash of sesame oil. Serve with steamed jasmine rice and sautéed greens for a complete meal. This asian poached fish variation is sure to impress!
Beer Poached Fish
If you’re a fan of beer, make it the star of the show. Use a whole can of your favourite brew, reduce the stock to 1 cup, and poach away! The beer infuses the fish with a subtle malty sweetness that pairs perfectly with a fresh, crisp salad.
Butter Poached fish
For a buttery delight, try butter poached mahi mahi (or Pulli Motha) or butter poached chilean sea bass. Sea bass (also known as Bhetki / Barramundi / Asian Seabass / Kalanji) and Pulli Motha are naturally rich and buttery, making it a perfect match for poaching. Serve with steamed basmati rice or fragrant coconut rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Coconut Poached Fish
Craving something tropical? Go for coconut poached fish by upping the coconut milk to 2 cups and adding a squeeze of lime juice and some fresh basil leaves. Serve with coconut rice and a mango salad for a meal that will transport you to a sunny beach.
Buttermilk Poached Fish
For a tangy twist, stick with buttermilk poached fish. The buttermilk adds a slight tartness that cuts through the richness of the fish. Pair it with a crunchy coleslaw and cornbread for a Southern-inspired feast.
Chinese Poached Fish
For a Chinese flair, replace the beer with rice wine and add a handful of sliced scallions and a splash of Chinese black vinegar. This chinese poached fish is perfect served over a bed of rice noodles with a drizzle of chilli oil.
Poaching Perfection: Tips and Tricks For The Best Poached Fish Recipe
- Temperature Control: Keep the poaching liquid at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. This ensures the fish cooks evenly and stays tender.
- Flavour Infusion: Don’t be shy with your aromatics! Garlic, ginger, herbs, and citrus all add layers of flavour to the poaching liquid.
- Freshness First: Always use the freshest fish available for the best results. Firm, white fish varieties are ideal for poaching.
Wrapping Up
And there you have it—your ultimate guide to poaching fish like a pro! With these fun and flavorful variations, you’ll never get bored in the kitchen. So, grab your fish, pour your poaching liquid, and let’s make a splash with this best-poached fish recipe. Bon appétit, fish fanatics!
SUBMITTED BY →
Vijay Kanagamathinathan
FreshToHome Customer, Since 2022
Asian Cuisine Enthusiast