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Wild Rice-Crusted Halibut

This wild rice-crusted halibut provides a sophisticated twist on a classic pan-fried fish dish. By popping wild rice until it is toasted and fragrant before grinding it into a fine powder, you create a unique, nutty coating that offers a far deeper flavour profile than traditional breadcrumbs. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the delicate, buttery flakes of the halibut makes this a truly rewarding main course for any seafood lover.

As a high-protein option, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a nutritious yet satisfying dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality treat. While halibut is used here for its firm texture, the method works beautifully with other white fish such as hake or cod. Serve it alongside steamed seasonal greens or a fresh citrus salad for a balanced, elegant meal that is remarkably simple to prepare.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Wild Rice-Crusted Halibut

  • 60ml vegetable oil, divided

  • 120ml wild rice

  • 130g plain flour

  • 2 large eggs

  • 4 (5–170g ) skinless halibut, hake, or cod fillets

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium-high. Add rice and cook, tossing occasionally, until grains have popped open like popcorn and are lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Transfer to paper towels and let cool. Pulse in a food processor or blender to a fine powder.

Preheat oven to 177°C. Place flour in a shallow bowl. Beat eggs and 1 tablespoon water in another shallow bowl. Place wild rice powder in a baking dish. Season fish with salt and pepper. Working with 1 fillet at a time, dredge in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into egg mixture, turning to coat evenly. Coat with rice powder, pressing gently to adhere.

Heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high. Cook fish until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer skillet to oven and roast fish until just opaque throughout, about 3 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.

Wild rice powder can be made 3 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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