Introduction
Lemon herb crusted haddock is a delightful dish that marries the fresh, zesty flavors of lemon with a subtle blend of herbs, perfectly complementing the delicate taste of haddock. Air frying this dish not only ensures a crispy crust but also reduces the use of oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Ingredients
- 4 haddock fillets (about 150g each)
- 50g breadcrumbs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg, beaten
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Lemon Herb Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, lemon zest, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the zest and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.
2. Coat the Haddock Fillets
Pat the haddock fillets dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet in the beaten egg, ensuring that it is fully coated. Gently press the fillet into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated on all sides. Repeat this process for each fillet.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 200°C and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Air Fry the Haddock
Place the coated haddock fillets into the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Lightly drizzle or spray a little olive oil on top of the fillets for extra crispness. Air fry for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning the fillets halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the haddock fillets from the air fryer and serve them hot alongside lemon wedges. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments to this dish.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs for a coeliac-friendly version.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme or chives for different flavor profiles.
- Aromatic Enhancements: Add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for added depth.
- Side Suggestions: Pair with new potatoes or a tangy coleslaw for a more substantial meal.
Health Benefits
Haddock is a low-fat, high-protein fish rich in important nutrients like niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. Air frying further reduces fat intake compared to traditional frying methods, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising on taste or texture.
Conclusion
This lemon herb crusted haddock recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and modern cooking techniques can come together to create a delicious yet nutritious dish. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!