Ep 6. The French Chef: Turban Of Sole

The French Chef with Julia Child is a classic cooking show that premiered in 1963. In season 4 episode 6, titled "The French Chef: Turban Of Sole," Julia Child invites viewers into her kitchen to learn how to prepare an elegant and delicious fish dish.

In this episode, Julia begins by explaining that a turban of sole is a stunning dish that is perfect for special occasions. It consists of delicate fish fillets that are rolled and wrapped around a flavorful stuffing of shrimp, mushrooms, and herbs. To start, Julia shows viewers how to prepare the filling by sautéing shrimp and mushrooms in butter and white wine, then seasoning with shallots, garlic, and tarragon. She sets the mixture aside to cool while she prepares the fish.

Julia takes viewers through the process of filleting a whole sole fish, showing how to remove the skin and bones while keeping the delicate flesh intact. She then lays out the fillets and demonstrates how to roll them up around the stuffing, creating a cylindrical shape that resembles a turban. Julia carefully places the turban in a buttered baking dish and pours a mixture of white wine and fish stock over the top.

Once the fish is in the oven, Julia prepares a sauce to complete the dish. She combines the juices from the baking dish with heavy cream and egg yolks, whisking them together over low heat until the mixture thickens. She then seasons the sauce with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

As the turban of sole bakes, Julia takes the opportunity to teach viewers about the history and preparation of Pinot Noir, a type of red wine that pairs perfectly with the fish. She describes the region in France where the wine is produced and explains how its flavors complement the delicate and rich flavors of the dish.

After the fish comes out of the oven, Julia carefully removes it from the dish and places it on a platter. She pours the sauce over the top, garnishes it with fresh herbs, and voilà - the turban of sole is ready to serve.

Throughout the episode, Julia's warmth and enthusiasm shine through as she shares her knowledge and love of French cuisine with viewers. Her easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips make this impressive dish accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you're planning a special dinner party or just looking to expand your culinary repertoire, "The French Chef: Turban Of Sole" is a must-watch episode for anyone who loves food and cooking.