Crispy Garlic-Fried Plaice Fillets
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat10gram
Protein25gram
Ingredients
- Plaice fillets, fresh and skinless2 pieces
- Garlic cloves, minced3 cloves
- All-purpose flour3 tbsp
- Salt1 tsp
- Black pepper, freshly ground0.5 tsp
- Olive oil or vegetable oil4 tbsp
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)1 tbsp
This easy-to-follow recipe guides you on frying plaice fillets infused with garlic for a flavorful, crispy finish. Plaice is a delicate, mild white fish that cooks quickly, making it ideal for a weeknight meal. The garlic adds a wonderful aromatic flavor that complements the fish perfectly. This dish is budget-friendly, with an estimated cost of $8 / €7 / £6 / ₹600 for the ingredients. Each serving contains approximately 250 kcal, making it a light and nutritious option suitable for a pescatarian diet. The recipe difficulty is easy, perfect for cooks of all skill levels, and the total time to prepare and cook is around 25 minutes. Food safety is emphasized: cooking fish to an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) ensures it is safe to eat. Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils for raw and cooked fish and wash your hands thoroughly. Enjoy your delicious and healthy garlic-fried plaice fillets!
Preparation instructions
Prepare the plaice fillets
1Pat the plaice fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better and ensures crispiness. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper. Set aside for a few minutes.
Prepare the garlic and flour mix
2In a shallow plate, mix the all-purpose flour with the minced garlic evenly. The garlic in the flour will infuse flavor as the fish fries.
Coat the fillets
3Dredge each plaice fillet in the garlic-flour mixture, coating both sides thoroughly but shaking off any excess flour to prevent burning during frying.
Heat the oil
4In a large non-stick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. It should be hot enough so that a pinch of flour sizzles when dropped in. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Fry the fillets
5Place the coated fillets carefully in the hot oil, cooking without moving them for about 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden and crispy. Flip gently using a spatula and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Use a food thermometer to check.
Drain and serve
6Remove the fillets from the pan and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips
-Use fresh fillets from a trusted source for the best flavor and texture.
-If you don't have a food thermometer, check doneness by making sure the fish flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
-Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary, so the oil temperature stays consistent.
-For a variation, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the flour mix for a spicy twist.
-Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty flavor enhancement.
Equipment needed
- Non-stick frying pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Shallow plate or bowl for coating
- Paper towels
- Food thermometer (recommended)
Shopping list with approximate costs and tips
- [ ] Plaice fillets (2 pieces) - $6 approx. Choose fresh, firm fillets with a mild ocean smell, avoiding any with a strong fishy odor.
- [ ] Garlic cloves (3 cloves) - $0.30 approx. Select firm and unblemished cloves.
- [ ] All-purpose flour (small amount) - $0.10 approx. You likely have this on hand.
- [ ] Olive oil or vegetable oil (4 tbsp) - $0.50 approx. Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor.
- [ ] Salt and black pepper (small amounts) - negligible cost; ensure fresh ground pepper for best taste.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (optional, small bunch) - $1 approx. Fresh herbs brighten the dish.
FAQ
How do I know when the plaice fillet is fully cooked?
The fillet is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and its internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F). The flesh will turn opaque and firm.
Can I use frozen plaice fillets?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator and pat dry before cooking to remove excess moisture for better frying results.
What can I serve with garlic-fried plaice?
Serve with lemon wedges, a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or boiled potatoes for a balanced meal.