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If you can boil water (or, broth in this case), you can make this easy but tasty fish recipe. It really doesn't get any simpler. I first came across the recipe in the
New York Times "Minimalist" column.
This is a great way to prepare thin fish fillets such as flounder, sole, tilapia and such which can easily overcook when grilled, pan-fried or broiled. The fish simply poached in
hot broth for a few minutes until it's done and the flavor is terrific. The poaching broth makes a great "dressing" for the fish.
Ingredients:
1 can (14 1/2 oz) chicken broth
2-3 leeks, trims and rinsed, white and light green parts thinly sliced
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper.
2-4 thin white fish fillets, a quarter-inch thick or so
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Method:
Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large skillet. Allow the broth to boil until it's reduced by half.
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Add the leeks to the broth, along with salt and pepper, to taste. Cook the leeks for a minute or so.
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Next, add the fish to the skillet in a single layer, if possible.
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Turn the heat off and cover the skillet.
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Let the fish poach in the hot broth for about 3 minutes. At 3 minutes check to see if the fish is cooked through. A thin-blade knife should encounter no resistance. Keep checking every minute or so until the fish is done.
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Serve the fish topped with some of the broth and leeks and a sprinkling of salt.
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Photos by Ted Scheffler