Crispy Pan-Fried Flounder: An Easy Homemade Recipe
How to Pan-Fry Flounder Perfectly: Achieve Crispy Exterior and Tender Interior. Includes Simple Seasoning and Dipping Sauce Tips.
Transform your weekend mornings with this delightful pan-fried flounder, made from fresh fish received as a holiday gift! Contrary to expectations, this recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, resulting in a dish that’s wonderfully savory and tender. If you usually stick to mackerel or hairtail, it’s time to explore the delicate flavors of flounder. This simple recipe, paired with a quick dipping sauce, makes for an exceptionally delicious fish dish that anyone can master.
For the Crispy Flounder- 2 cleaned flounder fillets
- Salt, a pinch
- Black pepper, a pinch
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or tempura/pancake mix)
- 3 Tbsp vegetable oil (generous amount)
For the Tangy Dipping Sauce- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Korean chili pepper, finely chopped
- Optional: Chopped green onion or red chili pepper
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Korean chili pepper, finely chopped
- Optional: Chopped green onion or red chili pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing your cleaned flounder. Make 2-3 shallow scores on the skin side of the fish. This helps the seasoning penetrate and ensures even cooking. Be careful not to cut too deep into the flesh.
Step 2
Season both sides of the flounder generously with salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If the fish was pre-seasoned at the market, you may want to reduce or omit the salt.
Step 3
While the fish is marinating, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of vinegar. Stir well. Add the finely chopped Korean chili pepper for a pleasant kick. You can also add chopped green onions or red chili pepper for extra flavor and color if desired.
Step 4
Lightly coat each marinated flounder fillet with flour. This step is crucial for achieving a wonderfully crispy exterior and helps prevent excessive oil splattering during cooking. Gently shake off any excess flour.
Step 5
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the floured flounder fillets into the hot oil. Pan-fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy. Flounder is delicate, so avoid over-handling; turn it only once or twice gently to prevent it from breaking apart.
Step 6
Once the first side is golden and crisp, gently flip the fish and cook the other side until equally golden and crispy. Remove the fish from the skillet once both sides are perfectly cooked. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by the prepared dipping sauce. The sizzling sound and aroma will surely tantalize your taste buds!
