Fish has always intimidated me. I'm not sure why. It probably stems from growing up in a house where fish wasn't cooked -- well, except for a few meals of fried catfish. Not long ago I decided to take the plunge and jump in feet first. I wish I hadn't waited so long -- baked fish is so easy! When you buy your fish, be sure that it doesn't smell too fishy. Fresh fish will be best, but frozen will work fine. Also, ask the cute fish guy for a cut that is pretty consistent in thickness from one end to the other. If they are customer-oriented, they will do so with a smile on their face. If not, find another cute fish guy.
Serves 4 to 6
1 1/2 pounds halibut or cod
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped chives
Canola or olive oil
Heat oven to 400° F.
Remove the skin from the fish either now, or before serving.
Sprinkle the fish with salt and pepper to taste and place it in a baking dish that has been sprayed with a little oil.
Melt butter in a medium-sized bowl in the microwave. Be sure to cover the top of the bowl with a paper towel to save yourself clean up time inside the microwave.
Combine the bread crumbs with the butter until well coated, and spoon the crumb mixture over top of the fish. Cover the top of the fish evenly.
Bake in the oven for 20 minutes if about 1 inch thick; 30 minutes if 1 1/2 inches thick. When done, the fish should flake with a fork. Sprinkle it with chopped fresh chives, and serve.
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