
Delicious Boiled Halibut Fillet with a BBQ Twist
Nutritional value per serving
Calories220kcal
Carbs4gram
Fat6gram
Protein30gram
Ingredients
- Halibut fillet400 g
- Water1.5 liter
- Salt1 tsp
- Lemon juice2 tbsp
- BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)3 tbsp
- Black pepperto taste n/a
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)1 tbsp

This recipe shows you how to boil halibut fillet gently to keep it moist while infusing a beautiful BBQ flavor. It's perfect for those who want a healthy fish meal with a smoky twist without grilling. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $15 / €14 / £12 / ₹1200. The dish is approximately 220 kcal per serving, fits a pescatarian diet, and takes about 25 minutes of active cooking. Difficulty level: easy.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the boiling water
1Pour 1.5 liters of water into a large pan or pot, add 1 tsp of salt, and bring it to a gentle boil.
Add halibut and lemon juice
2Lower the halibut fillet gently into the boiling water. Add the lemon juice. Reduce heat to a simmer (small bubbles). Simmer for 8-10 minutes.
Check internal temperature
3After cooking, remove the fish and check that the internal temperature has reached a safe minimum of 63°C (145°F) using a food thermometer.
Drain and apply BBQ sauce
4Drain excess water carefully and place the halibut on a plate. Brush 3 tbsp of BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the fish.
Garnish and serve
5Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with sides of choice.
Cooking Tips
-Choose fresh or properly frozen halibut with firm flesh and no fishy smell.
-Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and cutting boards for raw fish and other foods.
-If you don't have a food thermometer, check that fish flakes easily and is opaque all the way through.
-For a smokier flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the boiling water.
-Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or saucepan
- Food thermometer (recommended)
- Slotted spoon or spatula
- Brush for BBQ sauce
- Knife and chopping board for garnish
Shopping List
- [ ] Halibut fillet (~400 g) - Approx. $12: Choose fresh with firm texture, avoid cloudy or milky flesh.
- [ ] Lemon (1) - Approx. $0.50: Use fresh for best juice and aroma.
- [ ] BBQ sauce (bottle) - Approx. $3: Pick your favorite brand or homemade for flavor preference.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (small bunch) - Approx. $1: Look for vibrant green leaves without wilting.
- [ ] Salt and black pepper (pantry staples)
FAQ
Can I use frozen halibut fillets?
Yes, make sure to thaw them fully in the refrigerator before cooking for even results and safety.
How do I know when the halibut is fully cooked?
A food thermometer should show 63°C (145°F) in the thickest part, or the flesh should flake easily and be opaque.
Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, firm white fish like cod or haddock work well with this boiling and BBQ sauce method.