Smart Tip: Crisp Up Fish Skin Instead of Pushing It Aside

Anjali Prasertong
Anjali Prasertong
Anjali Prasertong is a writer and public health dietitian focused on food systems, racial equity, and nutrition. Originally from Los Angeles, she has taught English in rural Japan, worked as a private chef in Malibu, and led an innovative city-funded corner store program in New Orleans that increased fresh food access in low-income neighborhoods. She was previously a contributing editor for The Kitchn, and currently lives in Denver with her husband and two kids.
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updated May 2, 2019
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No one can blame you for pushing aside a piece of soft, soggy fish skin, but if cooked until crisp and crackling, the skin on a fillet is not just edible, it can be downright addictive, adding textural contrast and tons of flavor. The LA Times Test Kitchen has a simple method for ensuring the crispest fish skin.

The technique comes from chef Thomas Keller, and is quite straightforward. Dry the fillet thoroughly with a towel before using a metal spatula or knife to “squeegee” any remaining moisture from the skin. Heat a skillet over high heat, add a thin film of oil, and once the oil is hot, place the fillet skin side down in the pan. When the skin has crisped and released from the skillet, flip and cook the other side. Serve the fish skin side up to retain the texture.

The LA Times website has step-by-step photos of the method, as well as a helpful video demo.

• Check it out: Test Kitchen video tips: Crisp fish skin at the LA Times

Do you enjoy eating crispy fish skin? Any tips for getting it right?

Related: Quick Dinners: Tips on Cooking Fish from Melissa Clark

(Image: Audi Dela Cruz/Shutterstock)

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Pro Technique
seafood
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