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It's easy to get answers about health and nutrition! Just send your question by email to [email protected] and Dr. Harlan will respond to selected questions of general interest. Answers will be posted in the Ask Dr. Gourmet newsletter (sign up now!) and archived in the Ask Dr. Gourmet section of the website.

Please note that the Ask Dr. Gourmet feature is restricted to questions regarding food and nutrition. Due to the many questions we receive, not all questions may be answered. For more specific questions about your individual health, please contact your doctor. About Timothy S. Harlan, MD, FACP, CCMS | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy


 
 

Ask Dr. Gourmet

Can I use aluminum foil instead of parchment?

I really enjoy trying some of your recipes; I am a cancer survivor and am always looking for healthier food ideas. Your recipe for Salmon in Parchment with Mangoes - is it possible to use foil for the pockets instead of parchment?

Dr. Gourmet Says...

a salmon filet cooked in foil

Certainly you can use foil instead of the parchment. There may be a subtle difference in the meal in that the parchment breathes a little more so I generally add a little less liquid. My rule of thumb is to add 25% less liquid when I use foil.

One thing to keep in mind is to open the pockets carefully because the steam is hot, hot, hot.

Here are some recipes for you:

Salmon in Parchment with Mangoes
Sole in Parchment with Vegetables and Mushroom Sauce
Halibut in Foil with White Beans and Olives

Thanks for writing.

Timothy S. Harlan, MD, FACP
Dr. Gourmet