Herbed Shad With Edible Bones
Experience the unique flavor of herbed shad with edible bones, a traditional dish perfect for adventurous foodies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and dry shad.
- Sprinkle the inside of the shad with lemon and pepper. Place the fish on a rack in a baking pan.
- Add liquid to a level just below the fish.
- Add the remaining ingredients: celery and onion.
- Cover the baking pan tightly.
- Let the shad steam in a 350° oven for 5 hours.
- Baste the shad frequently during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose a fresh shad and ensure it's properly dressed. If you don't have lemon and pepper seasoning, a mix of lemon juice, salt, and black pepper works well. Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. If you prefer a stronger taste, use dry white wine instead of water for the steaming liquid.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herbed shad with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Pineapple Orange Carrot Jello Salad, adding a sweet contrast to the savory fish. For a heartier option, consider serving with roasted potatoes or rice pilaf.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover shad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently steam the fish on the stovetop or warm it in the oven at a low temperature to prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Shad With Edible Bones contains roughly 47 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute shad with other firm fish like salmon or trout. However, cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fish, so adjust accordingly to ensure it's fully cooked.
Is it necessary to cover the baking pan tightly?
Yes, covering the pan tightly helps to trap steam, which is essential for cooking the fish evenly and keeping it moist throughout the 5-hour steaming process.
What should I do if I don't have fresh celery?
If you don't have fresh celery, you can use celery seed or even a bit of bell pepper for a similar crunch and flavor. Alternatively, omit the celery entirely if preferred.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).