If you’re looking for a light, flavorful, and restaurant-style seafood dish, this Lemon Butter Fish recipe is a perfect choice. Known for its rich buttery texture and tangy lemon flavor, this dish is simple yet incredibly delicious. At NonVeg Adda, we bring you a step-by-step guide to making lemon butter fish at home with minimal ingredients and maximum taste.
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Fish
To prepare this delicious lemon butter fish, you will need:
For Fish:
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400–500g fish fillets (Basa, Tilapia, Salmon, or any boneless fish)
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Salt to taste
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½ tsp black pepper powder
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1 tbsp lemon juice
For Coating:
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour (maida) or wheat flour
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1 tbsp cornflour (optional for crispiness)
For Lemon Butter Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
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1 tsp garlic (finely chopped)
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1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
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½ tsp lemon zest (optional)
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½ tsp black pepper
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Salt to taste
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1 tbsp fresh coriander or parsley (chopped)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Wash the fish fillets and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Let it rest for about 10–15 minutes. This step helps enhance the flavor and tenderize the fish.
Step 2: Coat the Fish
Lightly coat the fish fillets with flour and cornflour mixture. This gives the fish a slight crisp texture when cooked while keeping it soft inside.
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Fish
Heat a pan and add a little oil or butter. Place the coated fish fillets gently and cook on medium heat.
Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and perfectly cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same pan, add butter and let it melt. Add chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant (do not burn).
Now add fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and let the sauce cook for a minute. This creates a rich and tangy lemon butter sauce for fish.
Step 5: Combine Fish with Sauce
Place the cooked fish back into the pan and coat it well with the lemon butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes so the fish absorbs all the flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander or parsley. Your restaurant-style lemon butter fish is ready to serve!
Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Fish
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Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor
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Do not overcook the fish-it should remain soft and juicy
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Butter is key for richness, so don’t skip it
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You can add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy twist
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Use boneless fish for easy cooking and serving
Serving Suggestions
Serve your hot and delicious lemon butter fish with:
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Steamed vegetables
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Garlic bread or butter naan
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Mashed potatoes or rice
This dish pairs perfectly with both Indian and continental sides.
