Fried fish with garlic sauce

Fried Fish with Garlic Sauce: a Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love the irresistible aroma of crispy fried fish served alongside creamy garlic sauce? This recipe for fried fish with garlic sauce is not just a simple meal, but a culinary experience that will transport you to a world of intense flavors and hearty aromas. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Recipe History

Frying fish is an ancient tradition found in many cultures. Whether it's a relaxing weekend in the countryside or a summer celebration, fish has always been a popular choice due to its versatility. The combination with garlic sauce is a true symphony of flavors, where the sweetness of the fish perfectly blends with the intensity of garlic. This simple yet flavorful recipe is a true feast for the senses.

Ingredients

- 1 kg fish (Danube carp or any fish of your choice)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower or olive)
- 10 cloves of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Cornmeal (for coating the fish)

Preparing the Fish

1. Clean and wash the fish. If using Danube carp, ensure it is fresh and has a shiny appearance. Cut it into pieces suitable for frying, so they cook evenly. Ideally, each piece should be about 2-3 cm thick.

2. In a bowl, generously mix salt and pepper. These simple spices will highlight the natural flavor of the fish. Sprinkle the mixture over all the fish pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated.

3. Dredge each piece of fish in cornmeal. This step is essential as the cornmeal will create a crispy crust, giving the fish a unique texture. Make sure each piece is well coated.

Frying the Fish

4. Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Check the temperature by adding a small piece of fish to the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

5. Carefully place the pieces of fish in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Use a spatula to gently turn them.

6. Once the fish is fried, remove it from the pan and place it on a platter lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step will help maintain the crispy crust.

Preparing the Garlic Sauce

7. Peel the garlic cloves and crush them with a knife or a garlic press. Fresh garlic is key to a delicious sauce.

8. In a bowl, add the crushed garlic, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mash them together with a fork or whisk, gradually adding a few drops of oil and water. Continue mixing until you achieve a creamy consistency similar to mayonnaise. This will be your delicious and aromatic garlic sauce.

Serving

9. Serve the fried fish alongside the garlic sauce on an elegant platter. You can also add lemon slices for a touch of freshness or finely chopped herbs like parsley for a more vibrant look.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables, adding a boost of freshness. You can also serve it alongside warm polenta, which will perfectly complement the intense flavor of the fish.

Nutritional Benefits

Fish is an excellent source of quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. These nutritional benefits contribute to heart and brain health. Additionally, garlic has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it an excellent ally for immunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of fish is best for this recipe?
You can use any type of fish you like, but Danube carp is a popular choice due to its rich flavor.

2. Can I use olive oil for frying?
Although sunflower oil is preferred due to its higher smoke point, you can use olive oil, but ensure you keep it at a moderate temperature.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you like spicy garlic, you can add a few drops of lemon juice or a small amount of crushed chili pepper to the sauce.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent choices to complement this delicious meal.

Possible Variations

If you want to add a personal touch, you can add spices like paprika or herbs to the cornmeal to give the fish a more complex flavor. You can also try replacing garlic with finely chopped green onions for a different sauce.

I wish you great success in preparing this delight! Try to enjoy every step of the process and don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones. Bon appétit!