
Herb-Poached Halibut in White Wine
Herb-Poached Halibut in White Wine
Elegant poached halibut with aromatic herbs and white wine. Incredibly moist and flavorful, perfect for entertaining.
Species nutrition
Open nutrition calculator →Plan portions & yield
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))
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
In a large, deep skillet, combine white wine, broth, lemon slices, thyme, parsley, bay leaves, garlic, shallot, salt, and peppercorns.
- 2
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let simmer for 5 minutes to infuse flavors.
- 3
Reduce heat to low. The liquid should be barely simmering—around 160-180°F. Bubbles should just break the surface.
- 4
Gently slide halibut fillets into the poaching liquid. They should be mostly submerged.
- 5
Cover and poach for 8-12 minutes, depending on thickness. Fish is done when it reaches 145°F internally and flakes easily.
- 6
Using a slotted spatula, carefully transfer fish to serving plates.
- 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
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.