Carnivore Buttered Fish Recipe
If you’re following a carnivore diet, incorporating fish into your meals is an excellent way to introduce variety while still staying within the framework of animal-based foods. One of the most delicious ways to prepare fish is by pan-searing it in a rich, buttery sauce. This recipe will walk you through creating a flavorful, buttery fish that aligns perfectly with a carnivore lifestyle.
Ingredients:
- 4 fillets of your favorite fish (salmon, cod, or trout are excellent choices)
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (preferably grass-fed for better quality)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or animal fat (optional, for searing)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional, or you can skip it if you prefer a stricter carnivore approach)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fish:
Start by patting the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps ensure a crispy, golden-brown sear. If your fish has skin on, make sure to leave it intact as it adds a delicious texture when cooked properly. - Seasoning:
Lightly season the fish with salt on both sides. If you’re including black pepper or herbs, you can add them at this point as well. You can skip the pepper if you want to keep the recipe strictly carnivore. Set the fish aside for a few minutes to absorb the seasoning. - Heat the Pan:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil or animal fat (lard or tallow) to the pan. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, it’s time to cook the fish. - Sear the Fish:
Gently place the fish fillets into the pan, skin side down if applicable. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, until the fish is golden brown and has a crisp outer layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the fish to steam instead of sear. Work in batches if necessary. - Flip and Butter:
Flip the fish fillets over carefully. Once flipped, add the butter directly into the pan, allowing it to melt and bubble around the fish. If you want to enhance the flavor, add the minced garlic to the butter and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The butter will slowly brown, infusing the fish with a rich, nutty flavor. - Baste the Fish:
As the butter melts and browns, spoon the butter over the fish fillets continuously (basting) for another 1-2 minutes. This technique ensures the fish absorbs all the rich butter flavor. - Resting Time:
Once the fish is cooked through and has a golden crust, remove it from the pan. Let the fish rest for a couple of minutes on a plate to ensure the juices settle inside, keeping it moist and tender. - Serve:
Plate the fish and, if desired, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. For an extra touch, serve with a wedge of lemon on the side (though citrus is not strictly carnivore, it can be included occasionally). If you prefer, you can skip the lemon altogether.
Notes:
- For best results, choose a fish that has firm, meaty flesh like salmon, halibut, or cod. These types of fish hold up well to searing and butter basting.
- If you’re following a strict carnivore diet, make sure your butter is sourced from grass-fed cows and opt for animal fats like beef tallow or pork lard for the cooking fat.
This Carnivore Buttered Fish is simple to make but incredibly rich and satisfying. It combines the natural flavors of fresh fish with the luxurious taste of butter, making it a perfect meal for anyone on a carnivore diet. The buttery finish provides a silky texture that complements the crisp exterior, making each bite pure indulgence.