Poaching is a cooking method that’s both effortless and impressive. By simply submerging food in liquid, you can create dishes that are tender, flavorful, and visually appealing. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a special occasion meal, poaching is an excellent way to cook a variety of ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering poaching recipes that will elevate your cooking game. From classic chicken breast to decadent seafood dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility and simplicity of poaching.
In the following pages, you’ll discover how to poach eggs with hollandaise sauce, salmon with lemon and dill, and much more. Each recipe includes step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your dishes turn out perfectly every time.
Perfectly Poached Eggs with Hollandaise Sauce
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this classic combination of poached eggs and rich hollandaise sauce. This recipe yields perfectly cooked eggs and a creamy, tangy sauce that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a medium saucepan of water to a simmer. Add vinegar and keep at a gentle simmer.
2. Crack eggs into the water and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until whites are set and yolks are still runny.
3. Remove eggs with a slotted spoon and drain off excess water.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add egg yolks and lemon juice, whisking constantly.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until mixture thickens to desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poached Salmon with Lemon and Dill
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing poached salmon recipe infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large skillet or sauté pan with enough water to cover the salmon fillets.
2. Add sliced lemons and chopped dill to the water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and gently place the salmon fillets in the poaching liquid.
4. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through, flaking easily with a fork.
5. Remove the salmon from the water with a slotted spoon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chicken Breast Poached in White Wine
This classic French technique yields a succulent and flavorful chicken breast dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. By poaching the chicken in white wine, you’ll infuse it with a rich and velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the white wine to a simmer in a large saucepan.
2. Add the butter and lemon juice to the wine. Stir until melted.
3. Gently place the chicken breasts into the poaching liquid. Make sure they’re covered with wine.
4. Poach for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the wine and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
6. Serve with the white wine sauce spooned over the top, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poached Pears in Red Wine and Cinnamon
A classic dessert that combines the sweetness of pears with the depth of red wine, infused with warm cinnamon spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 sticks of cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the pears to the poaching liquid, cut side up. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove the pears from the liquid with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish. Strain the poaching liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean saucepan, discarding the cinnamon sticks.
4. Bring the reduced poaching liquid to a simmer and add the honey. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the glaze thickens slightly.
5. Serve the pears warm or at room temperature, drizzled with the red wine glaze.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Asian-Style Poached Fish with Ginger and Scallions
Poach delicate fish fillets in a flavorful broth infused with the warmth of ginger and the pungency of scallions. This simple yet aromatic dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, combine ginger slices, soy sauce, white wine (if using), and brown sugar.
2. Add the fish fillets, making sure they are covered by the liquid.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Stir in scallions and cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Poached Shrimp in Coconut Milk and Lemongrass
Aromatic and flavorful, this dish combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the brightness of lemongrass, resulting in a tender and succulent shrimp poaching experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine coconut milk, lemongrass, fish sauce (if using), and cumin.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the shrimp to the pot, making sure they are fully submerged in the coconut milk.
4. Reduce heat to low and poach for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Classic Poached Chicken for Salads and Sandwiches
A moist and flavorful base for salads and sandwiches, this classic poached chicken recipe is a staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), giblets removed
– 2 tbsp white vinegar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer (low bubble).
4. Carefully place the chicken into the pot, breast side down.
5. Poach for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool in an ice bath.
7. Once cooled, refrigerate or store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Poached Cod in Tomato and Basil Broth
Brighten up a weeknight dinner with this flavorful and healthy poaching recipe, featuring succulent cod swimming in a vibrant tomato and basil broth.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add white wine (if using) and fish stock or water to cover the mixture. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and poach cod fillets for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let cod rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
6. Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean saucepan, discarding solids.
7. Serve cod with warm tomato and basil broth spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Poached Apples with Honey and Vanilla
This classic dessert is a perfect blend of sweet and soothing, making it a delightful treat for any time of the year. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this heavenly poached apple dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety), peeled and cored
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, honey, and split vanilla bean.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the cored apples to the poaching liquid, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the apples cook for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the apples cool in the syrup for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with any desired toppings (such as whipped cream or chopped nuts).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Poached Duck Breast in Orange Sauce
Elevate your dining experience with this elegant poached duck breast served in a vibrant orange sauce, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. This recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts
– 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp chicken broth
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large pot of water to a simmer.
2. Season the duck breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Poach the duck breasts for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine orange segments, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, and grated ginger.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve the poached duck breasts with the warm orange sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Poached Tilapia with Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and moist poached tilapia dish, infused with the pungency of garlic and freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat water in a large skillet or sauté pan to a simmer.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, parsley, and dill.
3. Place tilapia fillets on top of the herb mixture.
4. Pour olive oil over the fish, making sure they are coated evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Poached Eggs in Spicy Tomato Sauce (Shakshuka)
Savor the flavors of North Africa with this simple and satisfying recipe that combines rich tomato sauce with perfectly poached eggs. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Create wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 8-12 minutes or until the whites are set and yolks are still runny.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Poached Plums with Star Anise and Honey
Poaching plums in a flavorful liquid is a simple yet impressive way to enjoy their natural sweetness. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the warm, spicy flavor of star anise.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 plums (any variety, but firmer plums like Santa Rosa work well)
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 whole star anise pods
– Lemon slices or zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, honey, and star anise pods.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the plums to the poaching liquid, making sure they’re fully submerged.
4. Simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the plums are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature. If desired, garnish with lemon slices or zest.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Poached Scallops in Butter and White Wine
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the tender sweetness of scallops. This classic French dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a simmer.
2. Add the scallops and poach for 3-4 minutes or until they are opaque and firm to the touch.
3. Remove the scallops from the water with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add the white wine and lemon juice; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
6. Return the scallops to the pan and toss to coat with the buttery sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Poached Turkey Breast with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your holiday table with this elegant and flavorful poached turkey breast recipe, infused with the aromatic goodness of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large pot of water to a simmer.
2. Add the turkey breast, rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and lemon slice to the pot.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the turkey is completely submerged.
4. Reduce heat to low and poach for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the turkey from the liquid with a slotted spoon and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Poached Peaches in Vanilla Syrup
Enjoy a sweet and flavorful dessert with this simple recipe that showcases the natural sweetness of peaches.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe peaches, halved
– 1 cup vanilla syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups water
– Optional: sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large saucepan with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the peach halves, leaving some space between each peach.
3. Poach the peaches for 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the peaches from the water with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish.
5. Drizzle the vanilla syrup over the poached peaches and sprinkle with sugar to taste (if desired).
6. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Poached Halibut with Saffron and Fennel
Elevate your seafood game with this elegant poached halibut recipe, infused with the subtle flavors of saffron and fennel. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– 2 bulbs fennel, sliced into thin wedges
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine water, white wine (if using), saffron with its soaking liquid, and sliced fennel.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Gently place the halibut fillets into the poaching liquid.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Remove the halibut from the liquid with a slotted spoon and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Poached Eggs Benedict with Avocado and Smoked Salmon
This luxurious twist on a classic dish combines the richness of smoked salmon, creaminess of avocado, and fluffiness of poached eggs on toasted English muffins.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs
– 1/2 cup water
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 slices smoked salmon (about 6 oz)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup hollandaise sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a simmer. Crack in the eggs and cook for 3-4 minutes or until whites are set.
2. Meanwhile, toast the English muffins and top with smoked salmon slices.
3. In a separate pan, heat the hollandaise sauce according to package instructions (or make your own).
4. To assemble, place an English muffin half on a plate, followed by a slice of salmon, a poached egg, and a spoonful of avocado.
5. Drizzle with warmed hollandaise sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of effortless cooking with these 18 delicious poaching recipes! From classic poached eggs to gourmet salmon dishes, this collection has something for everyone. Learn how to poach chicken breast in white wine, pears in red wine and cinnamon, and even scallops in butter and white wine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, these recipes are sure to impress. With flavors ranging from lemony dill to spicy tomato sauce, there’s something for every taste bud.
