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Poached halibut with herbs and lemon
PoachedHalibut

Herb-Poached Halibut in White Wine

Elegant poached halibut with aromatic herbs and white wine. Incredibly moist and flavorful, perfect for entertaining.

Prep: 10 min · Cook: 12 min
Servings:4
Medium
Mercury (reference): Moderate

Ingredients

For 4 servings

  • 4 fillets (6 oz each) Halibut fillets
  • 1 cup Dry white wine
  • 2 cups Fish or vegetable broth
  • 1 whole lemon Lemon (sliced)
  • 4 sprigs Fresh thyme
  • 6 sprigs Fresh parsley
  • 2 Bay leaves
  • 3 Garlic cloves (smashed)
  • 1 large Shallot (sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black peppercorns
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (optional)

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (1 halibut fillet (6 oz))

Calories220
Protein
36g
Fat
5g
Carbs
4g
Omega-3
0.7g

Total for 4 servings: 880 cal · 144g protein

For informational and journaling purposes only. Results are estimates based on published nutrition databases and may not match your specific food.

Instructions

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 12 min

  1. 1

    In a large, deep skillet, combine white wine, broth, lemon slices, thyme, parsley, bay leaves, garlic, shallot, salt, and peppercorns.

  2. 2

    Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let simmer for 5 minutes to infuse flavors.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to low. The liquid should be barely simmering—around 160-180°F. Bubbles should just break the surface.

  4. 4

    Gently slide halibut fillets into the poaching liquid. They should be mostly submerged.

  5. 5

    Cover and poach for 8-12 minutes, depending on thickness. Fish is done when it reaches 145°F internally and flakes easily.

  6. 6

    Using a slotted spatula, carefully transfer fish to serving plates.

  7. 7

    Optional: Strain 1/2 cup of poaching liquid into a small saucepan. Add butter and reduce over high heat for 2-3 minutes to make a quick sauce.

  8. 8

    Spoon sauce over fish. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices.

Cooking tips

  • Never let the poaching liquid boil—gentle heat keeps fish tender and moist.
  • Save leftover poaching liquid for a flavorful fish soup or risotto base.
  • Halibut is a lean fish, so it benefits from the moisture of poaching.
  • This method works beautifully for salmon, cod, or any firm white fish.