Praetud ahven koorekastmes
Pan-fried Perch in Cream Sauce
A classic Estonian dish featuring pan-fried perch fillets served in a rich, creamy dill sauce. This recipe highlights the fresh flavors of the Baltic Sea.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Perch fillets(skinless and boneless)
- 50 g All-purpose flour(for dredging)
- 30 g Butter
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 250 ml Heavy cream
- 3 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper(freshly ground)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the perch fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the fish is dry helps the flour adhere better. - 2
Place flour on a plate and dredge each perch fillet, shaking off any excess.
💡 Tip: A light coating of flour helps create a nice crust. - 3
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the floured perch fillets and pan-fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. - 4
Remove the cooked fish from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Keep warm.
💡 Tip: Cover loosely with foil to retain heat. - 5
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- 6
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- 7
Stir in the chopped fresh dill and lemon juice. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Add dill at the end to preserve its fresh flavor. - 8
Return the perch fillets to the skillet and spoon the cream sauce over them. Heat through gently for 1-2 minutes.
- 9
Serve the pan-fried perch immediately, generously topped with the cream sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use fresh perch for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of dill to your preference.
- ✓This dish pairs well with boiled potatoes or mashed potatoes.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a splash of white wine to the cream sauce for extra depth.
- Incorporate other herbs like parsley or chives.
- For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.