Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of Provence! This extraordinary king fish recipe is not just a meal—it's a sensational experience that combines the delicate richness of perfectly roasted fish with the vibrant, bold flavors of a classic French Provençale sauce. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a culinary adventurer looking to impress, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and deliver a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 king fish fillets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will allow the king fish to roast perfectly while keeping it moist and flavorful.
- Prepare the king fish fillets by patting them dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a nice sear and prevent excess moisture from steaming the fish during cooking.
- Season both sides of the fish fillets generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the fish as it cooks.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to foam and turn slightly golden, which will add a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
- Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully place the seasoned king fish fillets in the skillet. Sear the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- While the fish is searing, prepare the Provençale sauce. In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, capers, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- After searing the fish, spoon the Provençale sauce mixture over the fillets in the skillet. Make sure to evenly distribute the sauce across all fillets.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the fish rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender fillets.
- To serve, plate the king fish fillets and generously spoon more of the Provençale sauce over the top. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious King Fish Roasted in Butter with Provençale Sauce alongside your favorite side dishes, such as rice or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Fish: Always select the freshest king fish fillets possible. Look for firm, translucent flesh with a mild ocean scent.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Moisture is the enemy of a beautiful golden crust. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry your fish before seasoning.
- Temperature Matters: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your fish reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Butter Browning Technique: When melting butter, watch for a light golden color and nutty aroma—this adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Sear fish in batches if necessary to ensure each fillet gets a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Herb Freshness: Use fresh basil right before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the fish to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to help retain its moisture and ensure tender, flaky texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 120mg
