What You Will Need
- 2 fresh trout fillets
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Trout Fillets: Start by rinsing the trout fillets under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This will remove any debris and excess moisture.
2. Season with Salt and Pepper: Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. This adds flavor to the fish during the cooking process.
3. Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter and olive oil. Allow them to heat until the butter begins to melt and sizzle.
4. Add the Trout Fillets: Gently place the seasoned trout fillets into the hot skillet, skin-side down. The skin will help protect the delicate flesh and give it a crispy texture.
5. Cook the Trout: Let the trout cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until you can see the edges turning golden brown. This indicates that the skin is becoming crispy.
6. Flip the Fillets: Using a spatula, carefully flip the trout fillets to the other side. If the skin sticks to the skillet, give it a little more time to cook, and it should release easily.
7. Continue Cooking: Cook the fillets for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on the other side, until the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking the trout to maintain its tenderness and moisture.
8. Serve: Once cooked, remove the trout fillets from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your trout fillets are fresh and have been properly cleaned before cooking.
- Be gentle when flipping the fillets to avoid breaking them apart.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets. Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes.
- Experiment with additional seasonings and herbs to enhance the flavor of your pan-fried trout.
With these simple steps, you can easily prepare delicious pan-fried trout in a skillet. The crispy skin and tender flesh make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy!