Baked catfish

Recipe for Baked Pigefish

Catfish is a prized fish with a delicate texture and subtle taste, ideal for sophisticated dishes or family meals. Preparing this fish in the oven is a simple but effective method that blends the natural flavors of the ingredients and provides an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds, but will also add a touch of elegance to your meal.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 pieces of stingray, skinless (about 150-200g each)
- 1/2 small onion, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Paprika to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the Fish: Start by drying the pieces of catfish with a paper towel. This step is essential to remove excess moisture, allowing the fish to brown nicely in the oven.

2. Assemble Ingredients: In a baking dish, place the fish pieces. On top, add thinly sliced onion and garlic. These vegetables will add delicious flavor during baking.

3. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper and paprika to taste. Paprika not only adds a touch of flavor, but also gives the dish an appealing look. Then add bay leaves to infuse the fish with a subtle Mediterranean flavor.

4. Adding Tomato Paste: Spread the tomato paste evenly over the fish. This will help create a delicious sauce that will enrich the dish.

5. Drizzle with Oil: Drizzle the fish pieces with a few tablespoons of olive oil, making sure each piece is well coated. Olive oil not only enhances the flavor, but also helps to keep the fish moist.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake the fish for 30 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it lightly browns and the flesh turns opaque.

7. To serve: Remove from the oven and let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving. It can be accompanied with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.

Practical tips:

- Choosing Fish: Make sure your catfish is fresh. Buy from a reliable supplier and check its appearance and smell.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or peppers, which will cook with the fish, providing a burst of color and flavor.
- For more flavor: Try adding some green or black olives for an authentic Mediterranean taste.

Nutritional Benefits:

Catfish is an excellent source of quality protein and is rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism, and minerals such as selenium, which help reduce inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I replace catfish with other fish? Yes, you can use other white fish such as cod or whiting, which have similar textures.
- How do I know if the fish is cooked? The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Is this recipe suitable for diets? Yes, it's a great option for healthy diets, thanks to its low calorie content and quality protein.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. You can also add a side of rice or baked potatoes, which will complement the flavors of the fish wonderfully.

Personal Story:

This recipe reminds me of family meals, when we would gather around the dinner table to savor fish delicacies. My mom used to prepare catfish on the weekends, and the aroma wafting through the house was always the reason we looked forward to sitting down to the table. I hope you'll create some great memories with this recipe too!

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to get cooking. I encourage you to experiment and bring your personal touch to this classic dish. Bon appétit!