Ep 2. The French Chef: Fish Filets Sylvestre

The French Chef with Julia Child season 3 episode 2, titled "The French Chef: Fish Filets Sylvestre," features Julia Child demonstrating how to prepare a classic French dish of pan-seared fish filets with a mushroom sauce, known as Fish Filets Sylvestre.

The episode begins with Julia explaining the importance of selecting the right type of fish for the recipe and how to properly fillet the fish. She demonstrates how to carefully remove the skin from the filet, leaving the flesh intact, and how to trim any excess fat or bones. She then seasons the filets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice before coating them in flour and searing them in a hot pan with butter.

Next, Julia shows how to make the sauce. She begins by sautéing sliced mushrooms and shallots in the same pan used to cook the fish. She then adds white wine and chicken stock to the pan and lets the mixture simmer until it reduces and thickens. To finish the sauce, she stirs in heavy cream and additional seasonings before pouring it over the cooked fish filets.

Throughout the episode, Julia provides helpful tips and techniques for cooking fish, such as how to tell when the fish is properly cooked and how to keep it from sticking to the pan. She also shares a few creative ways to adapt the recipe, such as using different types of fish or adding different herbs and spices to the sauce.

As always, Julia's cooking is accompanied by her signature wit and charm. She entertains viewers with anecdotes and jokes, making the learning experience both informative and enjoyable.

Overall, "The French Chef: Fish Filets Sylvestre" is an informative and engaging episode that showcases Julia Child's expertise in French cooking. Viewers will learn valuable techniques for cooking fish and will be inspired to try their hand at this classic French dish.