How to Fillet, Skin & Pan-Fry Fresh Turbot — Chef Tips + Adjika Sauce Recipe

by Oleg Nikitenko December 11, 2025

⭐ Why Turbot Is One of the Best Fish to Cook at Home

Turbot is a premium European flatfish prized for its firm texture and naturally buttery flavor. Similar to other high-quality whitefish, it is ideal for frying, steaming, roasting, or preparing sashimi-style cuts.

If you enjoy cooking fish like Pacific Dover Sole or Petrale Sole, you will appreciate working with turbot for its versatility and elegant presentation.

Explore more flatfish options here:

🔪 Step 1: How to Fillet a Whole Turbot (Chef Method)

Filleting turbot requires a sharp knife and proper technique. Turbot has four fillets — two on each side — similar to other premium flatfish.

1. Make the first incision along the backbone

Use the main bone as a guide to separate the upper fillet.

2. Slide the knife beneath the flesh

Stay close to the bones for clean separation and minimal waste.

3. Repeat for all fillets

This yields four symmetrical portions, typical for flatfish.

🐟 Step 2: Skinning & Trimming Turbot Fillets

Removing the skin gives the fillet a mild flavor and smoother texture when pan-fried.

Chef Tip:

Make a small cut at the tail end, hold the skin firmly, and pull gently while guiding the knife forward.

Trim the fillet:

Remove:

  • Loose belly membranes

  • Uneven edges

  • Thin flaps that may burn during frying

A clean fillet equals even cooking.

🍳 Step 3: Pan-Frying Turbot to Perfection

A good pan-fry enhances the fish’s natural sweetness.

Technique:

  1. Preheat a non-stick pan with oil

  2. Light seasoning — salt and pepper

  3. Lay the fillet in the pan; let it develop a golden crust

  4. Flip once and finish with butter

  5. Baste for shine and moisture

Pan-fried turbot is similar in texture to Petrale Sole or Pacific Dover Sole, but with richer flavor.

🥬 Step 4: Bok Choy — The Light and Fresh Side

Bok choy brings balance and color to the dish.

How to cook:

  • Slice lengthwise

  • Fry lightly in neutral oil

  • Season gently

  • Optional: add a splash of soy sauce

🥔 Step 5: Crispy Potato Scallops

Perfect for texture contrast.

Method:

  • Slice thin with a mandolin

  • Pat dry

  • Fry until crisp and golden

  • Season immediately

🔥 Step 6: Adjika Butter Pan Sauce

This is where flavor meets aroma.

How to prepare:

  1. Deglaze the pan with stock or white wine

  2. Add a spoonful of Caucasian adjika

  3. Finish with butter

  4. Whisk until smooth and glossy

This spicy, savory sauce pairs beautifully with turbot and all whitefish, enhancing the natural flavors.

🍽 Step 7: Restaurant-Style Plating

To present your dish like a chef:

  1. Place the turbot fillet at the center

  2. Add bok choy for green contrast

  3. Arrange potato scallops around the plate

  4. Spoon adjika sauce around or on top

  5. Serve immediately

This dish impresses visually and tastes even better.

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