How to Cook Haddock Roe

By: Fred Decker

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It's an odd fact of the fishmonger's trade that while caviar is some of the most world's expensive seafood, other forms of fish eggs can be remarkably economical. For example, haddock roe is hard to find in stores but is usually sold at a modest price. The sacs of eggs are contained in a tender, edible membrane, so the roes can be cooked or eaten whole. In traditional haddock-fishing areas they're usually pan-fried, or they can be poached for more elegant preparations.

Step 1

Open the package of haddock roes and slide them gently onto a clean paper towel. Pat them dry with another towel, and season them lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Heat a heavy skillet on a medium-high burner. While it's coming up to temperature, dredge the roes carefully in a plate of flour.

Step 3

Pour 1/2 tablespoon of cooking oil or clarified butter into the skillet. Shake any excess flour from the roes, and lay a few at a time into the skillet. Don't crowd the pan, or steam escaping from the roe sacs will prevent them from crisping. It's better to prepare them in batches, if necessary.

Step 4

Turn the roes with a spatula when the first side is golden and crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes depending on their size. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the second side, or until the eggs in the middle of the roe sac have turned yellow and lost their pink tinge. Serve immediately, or keep them warm while you prepare a second batch.

Poached Roe

Step 1

Make a highly-seasoned poaching liquid -- called "court-bouillon" -- by simmering peppercorns, a sprig of thyme, celery, onion or other flavorings in water, with a few grains of coarse salt and a splash each of white wine and white wine vinegar. After 30 minutes, strain the liquid and either cool it to room temperature or refrigerate it until it's needed.

Step 2

Place the roes in a broad, shallow pan and pour in enough court-bouillon to just cover them. Remove the roes, and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Its temperature should remain between 160 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit, when tested with an instant-read thermometer.

Step 3

Slide the roes back into the hot liquid, and adjust the burner to keep the poaching liquid within the correct temperature range. Poach the roes for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the eggs inside the sac have turned pale yellow.