The John Dory fish, sometimes called Saint-Pierre or Saint Peter’s fish, is a unique-looking saltwater fish that’s also pretty popular in the culinary world. People love it for its mild taste and firm texture.
You can find John Dory swimming in tropical and temperate waters across the globe, and it’s especially popular in places like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
This article will cover everything you need to know about the John Dore fish, including its characteristics, how to prepare it, and the best ways to use it in your cooking.
Identifying Characteristics and Origins
The John Dory is a saltwater fish found in tropical and temperate waters around the world, except for the eastern Pacific and western Atlantic Oceans.
Physical Appearance
The John Dory is easily identified by its flat, bony body and large head, along with a dark spot on its side. Its unique appearance is believed to help the fish confuse predators. It also sports a prominent dorsal fin.
Common Names
The John Dory goes by many names. In France, it’s known as Saint-Pierre. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s often referred to as Saint Peter fish.
What does John Dory taste like?
John Dory is a mild, delicate fish that many chefs love to cook with.
Taste and texture
The flavor is mild and slightly sweet with just a hint of seaweed. The flesh is firm and flaky, and it’s quite low in fat.
Versatile cooking methods
Because of its delicate flavor, John Dory can be prepared in many different ways. You can sauté it, bake it, steam it, poach it, or fry it.
In the UK, John Dory is sometimes used for fish and chips, and it’s also one of the key ingredients in the famous Bouillabaisse stew from Marseille.
Cooking John Dory: Tips and Techniques
John Dory is a delicate, flaky fish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Here are some tips and techniques for cooking it to perfection.
Handling and Preparation
The first step is to properly handle and prepare the fish.
Removing Spines
John Dory has sharp spines, so it’s important to remove them for safe handling. Use kitchen shears to snip them off. Then, open the abdominal cavity, remove the guts, and remove the head along with the gut cavity.
Filleting the Fish
Using a sharp knife, separate the flank from the ribs and spine. Then, divide each flank into three fillets.
Pan-Frying Method
One popular way to cook John Dory is to pan-fry it.
Ingredients
You’ll need olive oil, butter, shallots, white wine, lemon, and fresh herbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gently fry the shallots in olive oil and butter until they’re translucent.
- Add the fish fillets and pan-fry for about 1 minute on each side.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Splash in some white wine and squeeze in some lemon juice.
- Turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the fish cook in the juices for a minute or two.
- Add fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Why is John Dory expensive, and what are some alternatives?
John Dory can be pricey because it’s a high-quality white fish that’s relatively easy to fillet. That makes it very desirable for chefs and home cooks alike.
If you can’t find it or don’t want to pay the high price, turbot, halibut, or snapper can be substituted in most recipes. Mackerel, sea bream, sea bass, and even sardines can also work, depending on the dish.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
Serving Suggestions
When serving John Dory, consider pairing it with glazed Vichy carrots, fresh peas, sautéed green beans, or potatoes. A rhubarb compote or a classic beurre blanc sauce can also complement the fish’s delicate flavor.
Storage Guidelines
Fresh Fish
Fresh John Dory should have bright skin, clear eyes, and red gills with a sweet seawater scent. Store it at 40°F or lower and cook it within 24 hours of catching.
Cooked Leftovers
Refrigerate or freeze cooked leftovers. They’re generally safe to refrigerate for 2-3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
The Bottom Line
John Dory is a truly unique fish, known for its distinctive appearance and delicate flavor.
Chefs and home cooks alike appreciate this fish because it’s so versatile. You can pan-fry it, bake it, or add it to soups and stews.
However you prepare it, John Dory offers a wonderful culinary experience.