Epicurean Exchange

Poached Salmon Fillets

This dish demonstrates the technique of poaching which cooks food gently in liquid just below the boiling point. Fish is poached in a court-bouillon which produces a delicate flavor in the fish, while imparting some of the liquid’s flavor.

Court-Bouillon:

   2 carrots, very thinly sliced

   2 stalks celery heart, thinly sliced

   1 medium onion, thinly sliced

   5 sprigs lemon thyme

   2 sprigs Italian parsley

   6 cups water

   1 cup white wine

   3 teaspoons kosher salt

8 6-ounce salmon fillets

  1. Combine the court bouillon ingredients in a non-reactive skillet large enough to hold all pieces of salmon side-by-side with room to spare. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes.
  2. Taste the court bouillon to correct the amount of salt. Bring the liquid to a simmer and add the salmon pieces. If the salmon is submerged it will require 4 to 5 minutes cooking time. Use a small knife to check doneness.
  3. Place finished salmon on a baking sheet and warm slightly in the oven before serving.

Serves 8.