
A historical main dish from The White House cook book; a comprehensive cyclopedia of information for the home .. (1913). The most delicate mode of cooking white fish. Be sure to simmer, not boil, for best results.
Preserved exactly as written in the original source
Prepare the fish as for broiling, laying it open
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Put it into a dripping pan with the back down
Nearly cover with water; to one fish two tablespoonfuls of salt
Cover tightly and simmer (not boil) one-half hour
Dress with gravy, a little butter and pepper, and garnish with hard-boiled eggs
Modern guidance to help you succeed with this vintage recipe
Gentle simmering (160-180°F) rather than boiling prevents the delicate fish proteins from contracting violently and squeezing out moisture, which would result in dry, tough flesh. The salt in the poaching liquid seasons the fish through osmosis while also raising the water's boiling point slightly, creating more stable cooking temperatures. Cooking with the skin-side down protects the delicate flesh from direct contact with the hot pan while the water's thermal conductivity ensures even heat distribution.
Hard-boiled eggs can be prepared up to 1 week in advance and stored peeled in water in the refrigerator, changing water daily. The gravy or butter sauce can be prepared several hours ahead and kept warm in a double boiler or reheated gently before serving.
Store leftover poached fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fish is best enjoyed cold in salads or gently reheated in a 275°F oven, covered with foil and a splash of water or broth, for 8-10 minutes. Do not microwave, as it will dry out the delicate flesh.
AI-generated tips from Chef Cecil's culinary database
Hard-boiled eggs can be prepared up to 1 week in advance and stored peeled in water in the refrigerator, changing water daily. The gravy or butter sauce can be prepared several hours ahead and kept warm in a double boiler or reheated gently before serving.
Store leftover poached fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fish is best enjoyed cold in salads or gently reheated in a 275°F oven, covered with foil and a splash of water or broth, for 8-10 minutes. Do not microwave, as it will dry out the delicate flesh.