Unlike other types of fish, Dover Sole has a distinctly mild and sweet flavor, and is not “fishy” in the least. Its texture is firm, which makes it easy to slice into filets and helps it hold together throughout even the heartiest of preparations.
True Dover Sole Flavor Profile
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When purchasing Dover Sole the first thing to consider is whether it is a True Dover Sole, or a Pacific Dover Sole. They are not the same fish, and although Pacific Dover is a good fish, True Dover is a great fish. True Dover is really (truly) a Sole, whereas Pacific Dover is a Flounder, not a Sole. There is a big difference in flavor and texture between the two.
Dover Sole have a mild, sweet flavor with very firm, small flaked flesh. Legal Seafoods has this wonderful description: “The flavor of the Dover sole is mild and sweet, elusive and enticingly different from more mundane white fish species. It’s a special indulgence and always worth extra care and expense”. They have been considered both a delicacy and a mainstay of European cuisine for generations whose classic presentation includes being filleted tableside. The raw flesh is glistening white and remains a pure white color when cooked. Be careful not to over cook as it will become dry and will shrivel and curl.
- Bake
- Broil
- Deep-Fry
- Grill
- Poach
- Saute
- Smoke
- Steam
- Sushi
European Dover Sole, Genuine Dover Sole, Common Sole
True Dove Sole Description (Solea solea)
True Dover Sole are a thick-bodied European flatfish with eyes on the right side of the head and which grow to about 20 inches long. They have dark brown skin and longer more narrow bodies (relative to size) than other flatfish.
They can live to be 45 years old and reach commercial fishing size at about age six or seven. It became known as “Dover” sole because in the 19th century the fishing town of Dover, England kept London’s appetite for the fish satisfied by landing the most fish. Pacific Dover Sole are not the same fish.
Genuine Dover Sole are found along the Eastern Atlantic from Norway, the North Sea & Netherlands southward to the Mediterranean Sea to the central African Coast. They are found at depths between 1,300 to 3,300 feet, preferring sandy or muddy ocean bottoms.
How To – prepare Dover sole
FAQ
Why is Dover sole fish so expensive?
Why is Dover sole so popular?
What are the benefits of Dover sole?
What are some fun facts about Dover sole?
What is a true Dover sole?
True Dover Sole are a thick-bodied European flatfish with eyes on the right side of the head and which grow to about 20 inches long. They have dark brown skin and longer more narrow bodies (relative to size) than other flatfish. They can live to be 45 years old and reach commercial fishing size at about age six or seven.
Is Dover sole healthy?
Dover Sole is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight. It is also a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. How should I cook Dover Sole? Dover Sole can be cooked in a variety of ways, including baking, grilling, or pan-frying. It is important to cook it gently to preserve its delicate texture.
What is a Dover sole fish?
That’s because the fish tends to have a texture and flavor more similar to meat than fish. Dover Sole is a flatfish that primarily lives in the sediment of seawater. As its name might suggest, the fish comes from the Dover area, but it lives in other areas in the Atlantic and Mediterranean waters.
Why is it called Dover sole?
The geographical title “Dover” was tacked on to the true sole because the English town of Dover could supply more fish for London’s Billingsgate market than any other fishing village. But, despite its name, Dover sole is caught in other places. This flatfish ranges from the Mediterranean to the North Sea and is usually found in shallow waters.