Citrus-Infused Steamed Halibut with Lemongrass and Ginger
Experience a taste of California's wine country with this vibrant and aromatic steamed halibut dish. Infused with the fragrant notes of lemongrass and ginger, the fish is elevated to new heights, offering a refreshing meal that pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine. This recipe, inspired by a beloved dish from Trilogy Restaurant, allows you to explore Asian flavors while enjoying the health benefits of steaming. Perfect for a dinner party or a weeknight meal, this dish is quick to prepare and promises a delightful culinary experience.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
lemongrass
1 stalk (remove tough outer husk and root end, chopped)
fresh ginger
1 inch (peeled and chopped)
garlic
3 cloves (peeled)
cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
sesame oil
3 teaspoons (none)
rice wine vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
halibut fillets
4 (none (can substitute with Monkfish or Salmon))
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the lemongrass: Remove the tough outer husk and the root end, then chop it into smaller pieces.
2
In a food processor, combine the chopped lemongrass, peeled ginger, and garlic cloves. Blend until a fibrous paste forms.
3
Transfer the paste to a bowl and mix in the cayenne pepper, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and salt until well combined.
4
Take the halibut fillets and coat each piece generously with the lemongrass mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.
5
Prepare your steamer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Steam the halibut fillets for about 6 to 7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and begins to flake easily.
6
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or lime wedges, if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Citrus-Infused Steamed Halibut with Lemongrass and Ginger?
This is a vibrant and aromatic seafood dish inspired by California wine country, featuring halibut fillets coated in a paste of lemongrass, ginger, and garlic, then steamed to perfection.
How many halibut fillets are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 halibut fillets.
What can I use as a substitute for halibut?
You can easily substitute halibut with Monkfish or Salmon in this recipe.
How long should I steam the halibut?
Steam the halibut for approximately 6 to 7 minutes until the fish is opaque and begins to flake easily.
How do I prepare the lemongrass?
Remove the tough outer husk and the root end, then chop the remaining stalk into smaller pieces before blending.
What are the primary aromatics used in the paste?
The aromatic paste is made from chopped lemongrass, fresh peeled ginger, and garlic cloves.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy dish that utilizes steaming, which is a low-fat cooking method that preserves the nutrients and delicate texture of the fish.
What type of vinegar is used?
The recipe specifies 1 1/2 tablespoons of rice wine vinegar.
Does this dish have a spicy kick?
It includes 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, which adds a very mild touch of heat to the flavor profile.
Which restaurant inspired this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by a beloved dish from Trilogy Restaurant.
What kind of wine pairs well with this dish?
This meal pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, reflecting its California wine country inspiration.
Do I need a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, a food processor is used to blend the lemongrass, ginger, and garlic into a fibrous paste.
How much ginger is needed?
You will need one inch of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped.
What type of oil is used in the marinade?
The recipe uses 3 teaspoons of sesame oil for a nutty, aromatic finish.
How many garlic cloves are required?
The recipe requires 3 garlic cloves, peeled.
How should I serve the halibut?
Serve the fish immediately after steaming, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or lime wedges.
What should the texture of the fish be when done?
The fish is ready when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Can I use dried ginger instead of fresh?
Fresh ginger is recommended for this recipe to ensure the vibrant, aromatic citrus notes are achieved.
How much salt is included?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt.
Is this recipe quick to prepare?
Yes, it is considered a quick meal that is perfect for both weeknights and dinner parties.
What are the main flavor influences?
The dish features Asian-inspired flavors, specifically from the lemongrass, ginger, and sesame oil.
How do I coat the fish?
Each piece of halibut should be coated generously on all sides with the prepared lemongrass and ginger mixture.
Can I prepare the paste in advance?
Yes, you can blend the lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and seasonings into a paste ahead of time to save preparation steps.
What are the key tags for this recipe?
Key tags include halibut, steamed, lemongrass, ginger, healthy, Asian flavors, seafood, and quick meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (halibut, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, cayenne, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and salt), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What part of the lemongrass is used?
You use the stalk after removing the tough outer layers and the root.
Should the fish be steamed on high or low heat?
You should follow your steamer manufacturer's instructions, typically requiring steady steam production.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this dish.
Can I add lime to the recipe?
Yes, lime wedges are suggested as an optional garnish to enhance the citrus profile.
What is the description of the final paste?
The instructions describe the result of blending the aromatics as a 'fibrous paste'.