What’s for dinner? We’ve partnered with the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries and fourth-generation fishmonger Laura Foley Ramsden to bring you delicious inspiration for preparing local seafood. Try this healthy and flavor-packed spin on a local favorite: Asian-style haddock steamed on the stovetop. Steaming is one of the simplest, most nutritious ways to prepare fish—it locks in moisture, enhances delicate flavors, and keeps the fillets tender without drying them out.
This recipe turns fresh Massachusetts haddock into a main course that’s both comforting and light. It’s versatile enough for a quick weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests. Bonus: it works equally well with other flaky white fish like cod, cusk, or pollock. You really can’t go wrong.
Ingredients
Serves 2–4
- 1 lb haddock fillets, cut into 4-ounce (palm-sized) portions
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 scallions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or substitute 2 tablespoons orange juice)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Steamed vegetables (bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli pair well)
- Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, fresh lime wedges
Instructions
- Make the Sauce Base.
In a deep skillet or wide saucepan with a lid, combine soy sauce, water, grated ginger, chopped scallions, and sugar (or orange juice). Bring to a simmer over medium heat and let reduce by half. This should take about 6 minutes. - Steam the Fish.
Gently place the haddock fillets into the reduced broth. Spoon the liquid over the top of the fillets, then cover the pan tightly with a lid. Steam for 7–9 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. - Serve.
Spoon the steamed haddock over a bed of warm rice and add your favorite steamed vegetables to the plate. Drizzle with extra broth and top with fresh scallions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.
Sustainable, Simple, and So Good
Haddock is available year-round and is sustainably harvested from local waters, making it one of our top choices for home cooking. This Asian-inspired preparation elevates the mild flavor of haddock with bright aromatics and a punch of umami. It’s proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be bland—or boring.