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What are the top 5 Fish Techniques that every chef should know?

Ottilie Sebright

Well, as a foodie and lover of all things seafood, I believe every chef should have a solid understanding of the top 5 fish techniques to really elevate their culinary skills. So, let's dive into it!

1. Searing: One of the best and simplest ways to cook fish is by searing it. This technique involves cooking fish over high heat until it develops a nice crust while leaving the inside moist and delicious. The key to a perfect searing is to make sure the pan is hot and the fish is dry before placing it in the pan. It's also important not to overcrowd the pan and not to overcook the fish.

2. Poaching: Poaching is a gentle method of cooking fish that involves cooking it in a flavorful liquid. This technique is great for delicate fish like tilapia and cod. The liquid used for poaching could be anything from wine or stock to milk or coconut milk. The key to poaching is to make sure the liquid is at a low simmer to prevent the fish from falling apart.

3. Grilling: Grilling is a fantastic way to cook fish as it imparts the smoky flavor of the grill onto the fish. The key to grilling fish is to make sure the grill is hot and well-oiled to prevent the fish from sticking. It's also important not to overcook the fish, as it can become tough and dry.

4. Baking: Baking is a classic cooking method for fish that is simple, healthy, and delicious. To bake fish, simply place it in a preheated oven with some butter or oil and seasonings. The key to baking fish is to cook it at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. Overcooking fish in the oven can cause it to become dry and tasteless.

5. Frying: Frying fish is another classic cooking technique that can result in a crispy, delicious dish. However, frying can be tricky as the temperature and oil type used matter. It's important not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish. The key to frying fish is to use a high smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil and to get the oil to the right temperature before adding the fish.

So, those are my top 5 fish techniques that every chef should know. With these techniques in your arsenal, you'll be able to cook a wide range of delicious and healthy fish dishes.