Prepare the Fish: Start by cutting the fish into bite-sized pieces. If you're using frozen fish, be sure to fully thaw and pat it dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and a better texture for the dish.
Cook the Fish: Boil or steam the fish according to your preference. To boil, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the fish pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily. For steaming, use a steaming basket and steam the fish for 5-7 minutes. Both methods will give you a tender, lobster-like texture.
Prepare the Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Add lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning (or paprika), and allow the mixture to simmer for another minute to bring out the flavors. Toss the Fish in Butter Sauce: Once your fish is cooked, transfer it to the skillet with the butter sauce. Gently toss the fish in the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated. Let it sit in the sauce for a minute or two to absorb the flavors. This step is key to getting that rich, lobster-like taste.
Serve: Plate your Poor Man’s Lobster and garnish with fresh lemon wedges and parsley if desired. Pair the dish with sides such as garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.
