Learning how to cook fish en papillote, a French term for cooking fish in parchment paper, is not difficult. This is a perfect way to cook fish along with vegetables at the same time. This method of cooking fish results in a lighter and more tender fish. It'll only take about ten minutes once it's in the oven. Be sure to have parchment paper on hand. You can store it and use it at a later date.
Grab your parchment paper, several pieces of fresh fish and vegetables. Preheat your oven to about 350 degrees. Next, cut your vegetables into small pieces. You can cut them long and thin to help them cook faster.
Cut a heart-shaped piece of parchment so that there is about an inch margin around the shape. On one side of the heart, coat with butter and add your fish and vegetables. Take salt, pepper and a variety of fresh herbs and sprinkle it on top of the fish and veggies along with some olive oil. Fold the other side of the heart over and roll up the sides to seal the parchment.
Put your fully assembled package onto a cookie or sheet tray. Cook for about seven minutes and then check the fish. If it feels firm and flaky, with the outside of the parchment paper browning, it is finished. Traditionally, papillote is served while still in the parchment paper. This way, the diner can experience the smells of the fresh fish and veggies once the parchment paper has been torn open.
Cooking Fish en Papillote Tips
Be generous with your olive oil and herbs inside the package. You can also top the fish with a little lemon juice or some diced tomatoes. The recipe works best with meaty white fish. Try using red snapper or halibut to start.
Cooking fish the healthy way is not as hard as you might think. Fish is already good for you, and adding a few fresh herbs for taste eliminates the need for sauces that can add fat and calories. |
Despite Wisconsin's fame and glory for being the nation's Dairy State, Wisconsin is also home to a weekly tradition that has surpassed generations: the Wisconsin Fish Fry. Ask any visitor from another Midwestern state what they would like to eat on a Friday night, and they will likely choose their favorite burger, pizza, or gourmet restaurant du jour. Not so for the Wisconsinite, as all Wisconsin food lovers share the secrets of the Wisconsin Fish Fry tradition. |