When it comes to cooking fish, many people reach for the frying pan or oven. However, one of the most tender and flavorful ways to cook fish is by poaching it. Poaching involves simmering the fish in liquid until cooked through, resulting in a moist and flaky texture that’s hard to resist. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious poached fish recipes from around the world, each with its own unique flavors and ingredients.
From classic combinations like salmon with dill and lemon to more adventurous options like tilapia with chili and cilantro, there’s something for every palate on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these poached fish recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Classic Poached Salmon with Dill and Lemon
Classic Poached Salmon with Dill and Lemon: A Simple yet Elegant Dish
This recipe showcases the flaky texture and delicate flavor of salmon, elevated by the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be serving a memorable meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Fill a large saucepan with the water and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the salmon fillets, skin side down if they have skin. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Remove the salmon from the poaching liquid and place on a plate.
5. Garnish each fillet with chopped dill, lemon slices, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Asian-Style Poached Cod with Ginger and Soy
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the delicate taste of cod with the bold flavors of ginger, soy sauce, and aromatics. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced into thin coins
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Add sliced ginger and minced garlic; bring mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Place cod fillets in the poaching liquid; cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro or scallions, if desired.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mediterranean Poached Sea Bass with Tomatoes and Olives
Mediterranean Poached Sea Bass with Tomatoes and Olives: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of sea bass with the bright, sunny flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 large tomatoes, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine water, white wine, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer.
3. Gently place the sea bass fillets in the poaching liquid. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the fish is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until tender.
5. To serve, place a sea bass fillet on each plate, spoon some tomato mixture alongside, and top with sliced olives and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herb-Infused Poached Halibut with White Wine
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of halibut by infusing it with a fragrant herb mixture and poaching it in white wine. The result is a tender, flavorful fish dish perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine parsley, dill, thyme, and lemon slices.
3. Place halibut fillets on top of the herb mixture.
4. Pour in white wine and add water to cover the fish.
5. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Coconut Milk Poached Mahi-Mahi with Lime
This recipe combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the brightness of lime, perfectly balancing the delicate flavor of mahi-mahi. The result is a moist and flavorful dish that’s sure to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine coconut milk, lime juice, and grated ginger.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Place the mahi-mahi fillets in the skillet, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Remove from the oven and season with salt to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Poached Tilapia with Chili and Cilantro
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with a spicy kick from chili peppers and a burst of freshness from cilantro. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 dried arbol chili peppers, crushed or 1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and add tilapia fillets. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Stir in crushed chili peppers or sliced jalapeños. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Remove tilapia from poaching liquid and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Poached Trout with Garlic and Butter Sauce
Experience the flaky tenderness of poached trout paired with a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine butter, garlic, white wine (if using), and chicken broth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add the trout fillets, skin side down (if they have skin).
5. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove the trout from the saucepan with a slotted spoon and place on a plate.
7. Strain the garlic butter sauce and discard any solids.
8. Serve the poached trout with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Citrus Poached Snapper with Orange and Thyme
This recipe highlights the bright flavors of citrus and herbs, elevating a simple fish dish into a vibrant and refreshing meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and healthy dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine orange juice, water, and thyme. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add lemon slices and salt to taste. Poach snapper fillets in the citrus liquid for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poached Cod in Saffron Broth with Fennel
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of cod paired with the subtle warmth of saffron and the crunch of fresh fennel. Perfect for a light and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 bulbs fennel, sliced into thin wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a simmer in a large saucepan.
2. Add the soaked saffron and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and add the cod fillets. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fennel slices and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
5. To serve, place a cod fillet on each plate and spoon some of the saffron broth over it. Top with a few slices of caramelized fennel.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Poached Haddock with Leeks and Carrots
A delicate and flavorful dish that showcases the tender flaky haddock paired with sweet and savory leeks and carrots. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with water to a depth of about 3 inches.
2. Add the leeks and carrots to the pot, then bring the water to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and poach for 8-10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the haddock by seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Once the vegetables are done, add the haddock fillets to the pot, making sure they’re fully submerged in the water.
6. Poach for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Remove the fish from the water and serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon and garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes
Poached Catfish in Tomato Basil Broth
A delicate and flavorful recipe that highlights the tender goodness of catfish, poached to perfection in a vibrant tomato basil broth. This dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Gently place the catfish fillets into the broth, making sure they are fully submerged.
5. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Poached Monkfish with Shallots and White Wine
This elegant dish showcases the tender flaky texture of monkfish paired with sweet caramelized shallots and a hint of white wine. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup fish stock
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine shallots and white wine. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until shallots are caramelized and golden brown (about 15 minutes).
3. Add fish stock and butter to the saucepan. Stir until butter is melted.
4. Place monkfish fillets in the saucepan, skin side up. Cover with parchment paper or foil.
5. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Poached Flounder with Lemon and Caper Sauce
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of flounder paired with a bright and tangy sauce, perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this elegant dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 flounder fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine white wine, water, and sliced lemons. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add flounder fillets to the poaching liquid, cover with a lid, and cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add capers and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Remove fish from the poaching liquid and serve with lemon-caper sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poached Grouper with Herbs and Lemon Zest
Poached Grouper with Herbs and Lemon Zest: A Bright and Flaky Delight
This recipe showcases the freshness of grouper paired with a fragrant herb mixture and a burst of citrus flavor from lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 4 grouper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon zest from 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat water to a simmer (around 160°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, lemon juice, mustard, and olive oil.
3. Place the grouper fillets in the poaching liquid, making sure they are fully submerged.
4. Add the herb mixture on top of each fillet.
5. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from water with a slotted spoon and place on a plate.
7. Sprinkle lemon zest over the top of each fillet and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Poached Sole in Vermouth and Tarragon Broth
Elevate your seafood game with this elegant and flavorful poaching recipe, featuring delicate sole fillets bathed in a rich vermouth and tarragon broth.
Ingredients:
– 4 sole fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
– 1/2 cup vermouth
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine water, white wine, vermouth, and butter.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add tarragon sprigs and poach sole fillets for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove the fish from the liquid with a slotted spoon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the poached sole with the flavorful broth spooned over the top, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poached Mackerel with Ginger and Scallions
This refreshing recipe combines the rich flavor of mackerel with the brightness of ginger and scallions, perfect for a light and flavorful meal. With minimal preparation time and simple cooking instructions, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 1/4 cup scallion greens, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ginger slices, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add mackerel fillets, making sure they are covered by the liquid.
4. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Remove the mackerel from the pot with a slotted spoon and place on a plate.
6. Top each fillet with scallion greens and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Poached Barramundi with Coconut and Lemongrass
Poached Barramundi with Coconut and Lemongrass: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the delicate taste of barramundi with the creamy richness of coconut and the brightness of lemongrass. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a relaxing dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 barramundi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup of water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine coconut milk, lemongrass, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add the barramundi fillets, making sure they are fully submerged in the liquid.
5. Cover the saucepan with a lid and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Serve the poached barramundi hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Poached Perch with Parsley and Garlic Butter
This recipe showcases the simplicity and elegance of poaching fish, paired with a bright and savory sauce. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 perch fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine wine and water. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add fish fillets to the poaching liquid, making sure they’re fully submerged.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve fish fillets with garlic butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (poaching), 1 minute (garlic butter sauce)
Summary
Indulge in the delicious world of poached fish recipes! This collection features 18 mouth-watering dishes that combine healthy eating with bold flavors. From classic pairings like lemon and dill to international twists like ginger and soy, these recipes offer a variety of options for any palate. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and citrusy or rich and buttery, there’s a poached fish recipe here to satisfy your cravings. Explore this culinary journey and discover new ways to enjoy the health benefits of fish while treating your taste buds.
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