Dover sole is a delicate and delicious fish that can be prepared in various ways. One popular and straightforward method is pan-frying the fillets. Here's a simple recipe for preparing Dover sole fillets:
Ingredients:
- Dover sole fillets
- All-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Butter or olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
Pat the Dover sole fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential to ensure a crispy and golden crust when pan-frying.
Season the fillets on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful not to overseason, as the delicate flavor of Dover sole shines best with minimal seasoning.
Prepare a shallow dish with all-purpose flour. Lightly coat each fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess. The flour coating helps create a crispy texture when frying.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a generous amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. You can use a combination of both for extra flavor, but be careful not to use too much oil, as Dover sole is naturally delicate and doesn't need heavy frying.
Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, carefully place the floured Dover sole fillets in the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and become opaque. Be cautious not to overcook the fish, as it can become dry.
Once the fillets are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve the Dover sole fillets immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish. You can also garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Pan-fried Dover sole fillets are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with your choice of side dishes, such as steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or roasted potatoes.
Note: Dover sole fillets are delicate and thin, so they cook quickly. Keep a close eye on them during the cooking process to avoid overcooking. Also, ensure that the pan is hot enough before adding the fillets to achieve a crisp crust.