Basting Fish: Flavor & Moisture
A simple yet effective lemon-herb basting butter that infuses grilled or roasted fish with deep flavor and keeps it incredibly moist. Perfect for delicate fillets or whole fish.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.125 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and emulsified.
- Keep the basting liquid warm throughout the cooking process. You can place the bowl near the grill or oven (if safe) to maintain its liquid state, making it easy to brush.
- During cooking (grilling, roasting, or pan-searing), brush the fish generously with the basting liquid every 5-7 minutes. Ensure an even coating to prevent drying and to build rich flavor layers.
- Continue basting until the fish is cooked through, flakes easily with a fork, and has reached your desired doneness. Serve the fish immediately with any remaining basting liquid on the side.
Notes
Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or thyme. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne. This basting liquid also works wonderfully on chicken breasts or grilled vegetables. Keep the basting liquid warm to ensure it remains liquid throughout the cooking process.