Halibut: Gently, Gingerly

Steaming is an easy and gentle way of cooking without adding fat. It also brings out delicate flavors that are often lost with other methods of cooking.

This steamed halibut is a good example. The addition of a few lemon slices and sprigs of cilantro enhances the flavor of the fish without masking it.

Watch the steaming time so the fish doesn’t overcook and become dry.

Surround the cooked fish with the vegetables and sauce and you’ll have a good, quick meal.

Steamed Halibut With Ginger Sauce

Active Work Time: 15 minutes * Total Preparation Time: 30 minutes

2 tablespoons slivered ginger root

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup rice vinegar

1/4 cup water

2 tablespoons sugar

1 clove garlic, chopped

1/4 teaspoon sesame oil

4 carrots, cut lengthwise into thin strips

2 (6-ounce) halibut steaks, about 1-inch thick

4 fresh shiitake mushrooms

1 lemon, sliced

4 sprigs cilantro

2 heads bok choy, cut in half lengthwise

* Combine the ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, sugar, garlic and sesame oil in a small bowl, then set them aside while you prepare the fish and vegetables.

* Place the carrots in the top of a steamer over simmering water. Steam the carrots 5 minutes. Push the carrots to one side of the steamer and add the halibut steaks and mushrooms. Place the lemon slices and sprigs of cilantro on top of the fish. Put the cover back on the steamer and steam the fish another 5 to 8 minutes.

* After 5 minutes, check to see if the fish is done: Pierce the center of each steak with a knife or fork and pull it open slightly; the flesh should be opaque and moist. If the fish is done, remove it to a platter, cover and keep warm.

* Add the bok choy to the steamer and cook until it’s limp yet tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the vegetables from the steamer. Arrange the fish and vegetables on serving plates and spoon a little of the ginger soy sauce over the top.

2 servings. Each serving: 305 calories; 2,534 mg sodium; 44 mg cholesterol; 4 grams fat; 32 grams carbohydrates; 36 grams protein; 8.01 grams fiber.