Fish canned in oil

Fish Preserved in Oil: A Homemade Delicacy

Total Time: 6 hours and 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 5-6 hours
Number of Servings: 6-8 servings

Welcome to the world of homemade delicacies! Today, we will embark on the preparation of fish preserved in oil, a tasty and healthy dish, full of flavors and textures. This recipe is an excellent way to preserve fish, keeping its intense flavor and nutritional properties. The fish preserve can be used in various ways – from simple consumption alongside a slice of lemon to being integrated into salads or warm dishes.

The history of this recipe is fascinating. Fish preservation has been a traditional practice used over time to ensure food during winter periods or in areas where access to fresh products was limited. Today, we continue this tradition, bringing a touch of the past into our modern kitchens.

Ingredients:
- 2 kg of carp (or other preferred fish, such as trout)
- Salt (to taste)
- Peppercorns (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Bay leaves (2-3 leaves)
- 300 ml of vinegar (preferably white or wine vinegar)
- Oil (enough to cover the fish, approximately 500-600 ml)

Preparing the Fish:
1. Start by cleaning and washing the fish well. Cut it into slices about 2-3 cm thick. It is essential to have fresh fish, as the quality of the ingredients will influence the final result.
2. Generously sprinkle salt on the fish slices and leave them in the fridge for 3 hours. This process will help firm up the texture and intensify the flavor of the fish.

Marinating in Vinegar:
1. After 3 hours, take the fish out of the fridge and rinse it under cold running water to remove excess salt.
2. Place the fish in a container and cover it with vinegar. Ensure that the fish slices are completely submerged in vinegar. Let it marinate for 30 minutes. This step will add a pleasant tang and help preserve the fish.

Cooking in Oil:
1. In a large pot, add 300 ml of oil. It is important to use quality oil, as it will influence the final taste of the dish.
2. After the fish has been in vinegar, remove it, rinse it again, and season it with salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. These spices will add delicious flavors and transform the preserve into a true delicacy.
3. Place the fish slices in the oil in the pot. It is essential not to add water; the oil must be enough to completely cover the fish. This will ensure proper preservation and intensify the flavors.

Baking:
1. Preheat the oven to a low temperature (about 100-120°C). Trying to bake the fish at a higher temperature could lead to drying and an unpleasant texture.
2. Place the pot in the oven and let the fish bake for 5-6 hours. Check occasionally, and if you notice the oil decreasing, add a little more oil to keep the fish covered.

Preservation:
1. After the fish is cooked, remove the pot from the oven. Use a spatula to transfer the hot fish into sterilized jars. Make sure each jar is filled with fish and oil, leaving a small space at the top.
2. Once the jars are full, cover them with lids and wrap them in a thick blanket. Let them sit at room temperature for 24 hours to cool gradually.

Storage and Serving:
1. After the jars have completely cooled, store them in a pantry, in a dry and cool place. The fish preserve can be kept well for a few months, but it is best consumed within the first 3-4 months to enjoy the best flavors.
2. When you are ready to enjoy this delicacy, serve the fish simply, with a slice of lemon squeezed on top, or use it in salads, sandwiches, or alongside grilled vegetables.

Tips and Variations:
- You can experiment with different types of fish to achieve various flavors. Carp, perch, or trout are all excellent options.
- Add fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, to the jars for an extra flavor boost.
- If you like a spicy note, you can add a few slices of chili pepper or red peppercorns.

Nutritional Benefits:
Fish is an excellent source of quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. This preserve is not only delicious but also beneficial for health, making it an excellent option for your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What type of fish is best for this recipe?
- Carp is a popular choice, but you can also use other types of white fish, such as trout.

2. Can I keep the preserve longer?
- Yes, if stored properly, the preserve can last for a few months, but it is best to consume it within the first 3-4 months.

3. How can I use the fish preserve in other recipes?
- You can add the fish to salads, sandwiches, or use it as a filling for tacos or wraps.

I hope this recipe for fish preserved in oil inspires you to start cooking! Whether you serve it at a festive meal or use it as a quick lunch option, it is a delicious and healthy choice. Bon appétit!