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Sole with Orange Brown Butter

This elegant pan-fried sole with orange brown butter is a superb choice for a sophisticated high-protein meal that feels truly indulgent. The delicate, flaky texture of the sole provides a neutral base that perfectly complements the rich, nutty notes of the browned butter. Infused with fresh citrus, the sauce offers a bright acidity that cuts through the richness, creating a beautifully balanced dish that celebrates fresh ingredients.

Ideal for a quick weeknight supper or an impressive dinner party main, this recipe relies on simple techniques to achieve a professional finish. Serving the fish with a side of steamed seasonal greens or tender crushed new potatoes allows the vibrant orange and lemon flavours to shine. It is an excellent way to enjoy lean seafood while benefiting from a satisfying, flavour-forward sauce.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Sole with Orange Brown Butter

  • 450g sole fillets

  • Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

  • Flour for dusting

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 large shallot, minced

  • 60ml freshly squeezed orange juice

  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

How to make Sole with Orange Brown Butter

  1. Season the fillets with the salt and pepper and dredge them in the flour. Shake off any excess flour. Put half of the oil in a large sauté pan over high heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking, sauté the fish on one side for 3 minutes. Then flip and cook on the other side until just done, 1 to 2 minutes; the fillets should be golden brown and just cooked through. Transfer them to a platter and keep them warm in a 93°C oven while you make the sauce.

  2. Add the remaining oil and the butter to a sauté pan and cook over high heat until the butter starts to foam. Add the shallot. Cook until it is golden and the butter is a pale hazelnut brown, about 1 minute. Add the orange juice and cook for 1 minute more. Add the lemon juice. When the butter mixture starts to foam again, remove the pan from heat. Season with more salt and pepper, if desired.

  3. Put a piece of sole on each plate, drizzle with the brown butter, and serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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