Halibut Happenings in Houston: A Fishy Guide
So, you're craving halibut, huh? Good choice! This flaky white fish is like the Jennifer Aniston of the seafood world - consistently good, reliable, and a crowd-pleaser. But where, oh where, can you find this aquatic gem in the heart of Texas? Fear not, fellow fish enthusiast, I'm here to be your trusty guide through the murky waters of the Houston seafood scene.
Your Local Halibut Haven
Let's start with the obvious: your local grocery store. Places like H-E-B and Central Market often stock fresh halibut, especially during peak season. Now, I know what you're thinking, "Grocery store fish? Is that even real fish?" Well, surprise, surprise, some grocery stores actually curate pretty decent seafood sections. It's like finding a diamond in a haystack, but hey, the thrill of the hunt, right?
If you're looking for a more specialized seafood experience, then it's time to dive into the world of fish markets. Houston boasts a number of these aquatic emporiums, and they often have a wider variety of fresh fish, including our beloved halibut. Places like Blue Horizon Wholesale Seafood and Fountain View Fish Market are popular choices, but there might be hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Halibut Hotspots: Restaurants
Okay, so you're not much of a cook. Or maybe you just want someone else to do the hard work. That's where Houston's seafood restaurants come in. While halibut might not be the star of the show everywhere, many upscale restaurants offer it as a special or a menu item. Places like Rainbow Lodge and Truluck's are known for their fresh seafood, so they're worth checking out.
A word of caution: Not all halibut is created equal. Some places might serve frozen, farm-raised halibut, while others will offer wild-caught Alaskan halibut. If you're a seafood snob (and who isn't a little?), you might want to do a bit of research or ask your waiter about the source of their halibut.
How to Handle Your Halibut
Once you've managed to snag yourself a halibut, you might be wondering what to do with it. Fear not, I've got you covered.
- How to thaw halibut: If your halibut is frozen, the safest way to thaw it is in the refrigerator. It might take a day or two, so plan ahead.
- How to cook halibut: Halibut is a delicate fish, so it's best cooked quickly. Grilling, baking, and pan-searing are all excellent options.
- How to season halibut: Less is often more with halibut. A simple sprinkle of salt, pepper, and lemon is all it needs.
So, there you have it, a comprehensive guide to finding and enjoying halibut in Houston. Happy fishing (or rather, happy eating)!