Considered a delicacy, char is a cold-water fish found in fresh water and seawater in Canada’s Arctic. A savoury bread topping and fresh lemon perfectly complement the mild taste of char, making this a healthy, mouth-watering dinner option.
2 lbs (900 g) Arctic char
1 tsp (5 ml) salt, divided
1 tsp (5 ml) ground black pepper, divided
¼ cup (60 g) butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
½ tsp (2.5 ml) dried thyme
1 tsp (5 ml) lemon juice
½ cup (125 g) breadcrumbs
Lemon wedges
Fresh chopped parsley
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) convection setting.
2. Rinse the fish and pat dry with paper towel. Place on a baking sheet lined with greased parchment paper or foil. Season the fish with ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) of the salt and ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) of the black pepper.
3. In a skillet, melt about half of the butter. Add the onion and gently cook for 2 minutes. Add the thyme, lemon juice, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs and remaining butter. Allow the butter to melt and mix well.
4. Sprinkle the topping over the fish and bake for 12 to 15 minutes.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and chopped parsley.
Arctic char is very versatile. It can be poached, sautéed, broiled, grilled or baked. It’s loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, so even if you overcook it slightly, it won’t dry out.
