En Papillote: The French Technique for Perfectly Tender and Mess-Free Fish
Fish is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. However, it can be difficult to cook it just right, and it can be a hassle to clean up afterwards. Luckily, there is a simple and easy French technique that can help you create perfectly cooked and mess-free fish in just 30 minutes. This method is called “en papillote” and involves steaming the fish inside a sealed packet of foil or parchment paper.
To start, cut four large pieces of aluminum foil. Then, place one fish fillet on one side of each piece of foil and top it with your preferred seasonings. We recommend using fresh thyme, lemon zest, and a pat of butter, but feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.
Next, fold the empty side of the foil over the fish and fold up the edges to create a sealed packet. Transfer the packets to a rimmed baking sheet and bake at 450 degrees until the fish reaches your desired temperature.
When the fish is done cooking, transfer the packets to plates and carefully open them to reveal the perfectly cooked fish inside. The steam created by the foil packet will have cooked the fish through while keeping it tender and flavorful.
En papillote is not only a great cooking method for fish, but it can also be used to cook other foods like chicken or asparagus. Plus, it’s a fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen and encourage them to try new foods.
In conclusion, cooking fish en papillote is an easy and delicious way to create a quick and healthy meal without the hassle of cleaning up. Try it out with your favorite fish and seasonings, and enjoy a perfectly cooked and flavorful meal in no time.
