Temperature and Doneness when Cooking Fish - Section 1: Introduction

Cooking fish perfectly can feel like walking a tightrope. One moment it's translucent in the center, the next it's dry and chalky. This anxiety is universal – even experienced cooks sometimes hesitate when judging fish doneness. But here's what generations of coastal cooks have known: fish tells you when it's ready, if you know how to listen.

Unlike other proteins, fish transforms quickly and dramatically, giving you clear signals about its progress. The key lies in understanding that fish is fundamentally different from meat – its delicate structure and lower fat content mean it cooks faster and requires a gentler touch.

When you learn to read these signals, you'll join the ranks of confident cooks who can prepare perfect fish without constantly second-guessing themselves. This lesson is about developing the intuitive understanding that makes you great at cooking fish.