Halibut with Indian Spices
This Halibut with Indian Spices is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the richness of halibut with aromatic, earthy Indian spices. The dish is quick to prepare, with minimal cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful weekend dinner. The medium spice level will tantalize your taste buds, while the tangy mustard oil complements the robust spices. Served in a simple yet elegant manner, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike. The recipe is also ideal for those following a lactose-free diet.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cumin seeds | 2 tsp |
| Coriander seeds | 2 tsp |
| Fennel seeds | 2 tsp |
| Cloves | 4 whole |
| Turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Chilli powder | ½ tsp (adjust for heat) |
| Halibut fillets or steaks | 4 pieces (approx. 140g each) |
| Mustard oil | 1-3 tbsp |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 per serving |
| Protein | ~30g per serving |
| Fat | ~8g per serving |
| Carbohydrates | ~2g per serving |
| Fiber | ~1g per serving |
| Allergens | Fish (Halibut), Mustard oil |
Allergen Information:
- Contains fish (Halibut)
- Contains mustard oil (if you have a mustard allergy, substitute with another oil like vegetable or olive oil)
Dietary Preferences:
- Lactose-free
Preparation Instructions:
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Toast the Spices: Start by heating a dry cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and cloves. Toast the spices for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant. Once toasted, remove the pan from the heat and let the spices cool for a few minutes.
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Grind the Spices: Transfer the cooled toasted spices to a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. Grind the spices into a fine powder. Once ground, transfer the mixture to a small bowl. Add the turmeric and chilli powder to the bowl and mix well.
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Season the Fish: Place the halibut fillets or steaks on a baking sheet. Season them with salt and pepper, then drizzle with mustard oil. Sprinkle the prepared spice mixture over the fish, ensuring that it’s evenly coated. Massage the spice mix into the fish gently to ensure a thorough coat. Cover the fish and refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow the spices to marinate and infuse the fish.
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Cook the Fish: Once the fish has marinated, bring it to room temperature before cooking. Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add a little mustard oil to the pan. Fry the halibut for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the fish is just opaque throughout. Alternatively, you can cook the fish under a grill or bake it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
Additional Advice:
- If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of chilli powder according to your taste.
- For a more intense flavor, you can allow the fish to marinate overnight.
- If you’re not a fan of mustard oil, you can replace it with vegetable or olive oil, but mustard oil adds a distinct, authentic flavor that complements the Indian spices.
- Serve this flavorful dish with a side of basmati rice or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
Conclusion:
This Halibut with Indian Spices brings an explosion of flavors that will captivate your senses with every bite. The combination of toasted spices and mustard oil perfectly complements the delicate flavor of the halibut, making it an unforgettable dish. Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this dish also caters to lactose-free diets, making it an excellent option for guests with dietary restrictions.
