| Market Names |
Pacific Dover Sole, Dover Sole, Sole |
| Where Caught |
The Pacific Dover sole is found on the US Pacific coast from California to Alaska. |
| How Caught |
Bottom Trawling |
Dover Sole - Pacific
Dover Sole (Microstomus pacificus) is considered a flatfish, as is Halibut, Turbot, Fluke and Flounder, belonging to the family Pleuronectidae. It is not a true sole, but a Flounder. All flatfish have a very unique characteristic — they are born upright with normally placed eyes, then as they mature one eye moves to the other side of their body. At the same time their body tilts and they begin to swim flat, with the eye side up.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood WATCH® states "Pacific Flatfish such as sole, flounder and halibut are "Good Alternative" to those from the Atlantic where historical overfishing has reduced populations."
| Sources | |
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Species NameMicrostomus pacificus |
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SourceThe Pacific Dover is found on the west coast from California to Alaska. Pacific Dover Sole should not be confused with TRUE European Dover Sole which is found in the North Sea to the Mediterranean. |
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SeasonalityDover Sole is available both fresh and frozen year round. |
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Fishing MethodSole is a classic wild fish. It is most often caught by fisheries using the trawling method. |
| Features | |
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FlavorDover Sole has a firm textured flesh with a delicate taste. |
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Dietary InformationPer 3.5oz (100g) raw edible food: |
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AppearanceThe flesh is white, in both the raw and cooked form. |
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FormPacific Dover Sole is available in fresh or frozen fillets, or dressed. |
| Uses | |
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PreparationSole is a very versatile fish. It can be poached, steamed, baked or broiled. |
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SubstitutionAny variety of Flounder can be substituted for Sole because of the delicate texture that is predominate in both fish. |
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HandlingFresh Pacific Dover Sole should be refrigerated at 30-34 degrees F. Whole fish should be surrounded with fresh ice in a perforated pan which allows any water to drain away from the product for maximum shelf life. Never directly ice a Pacific Dover Sole fillet. Filleted product should be stored in a sealed plastic container and surrounded with ice. |
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ServingBecause of its delicate flavor, it is easily overpowered by strong flavors. Dover Sole is delicious with a lemon-dill sauce, or a simple coat of butter. |
| Market | |
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Pricing ScaleWild capture Pacific Dover Sole prices have increased over the last few years due to dwindling supply but still remain a good value. |
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Shelf LifeFresh whole Pacific Dover Sole which has been handled and stored properly should retain optimum quality for 3-4 days. Once the fish is filleted product should be used within 2-3 days. Frozen can be commercially stored for up to six months. |