Breaded fried fish

Breaded carp – a delicious and crispy recipe, perfect for a family meal or dinner with friends. This simple yet flavorful dish is a great way to bring fish closer to our tables, in a form that delights the taste buds. Besides its delicious taste, carp is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 5

Ingredients:
- 600 g carp without head (approximately 2-3 large servings)
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 50 g flour
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- salt to taste

Preparation of breaded carp:

1. Preparing the carp:
Start by cleaning the carp. If you haven't bought cleaned fish, remove the scales, entrails, and gills. Cut it into equal-sized fillets so they cook evenly. Rinse the fillets well under cold running water and then dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

2. Seasoning:
Sprinkle salt on each fillet and let them marinate for about 10 minutes. The salt will help enhance the flavors and make the fish tastier.

3. Preparing the breading ingredients:
Start by washing the eggs under cold running water. In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a fork until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Sifting the flour and breadcrumbs is an important step, as it helps eliminate any impurities and achieve a finer texture.

4. Breading the carp:
Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Take each piece of carp, first dip it in flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, dip the fillet in the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off. Finally, roll it in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks well. This breading technique will provide a crispy and delicious crust.

5. Frying the carp:
In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot (about 180°C), carefully add the carp fillets. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches to allow the fish to fry evenly. Fry each fillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip the fillets.

6. Finishing and serving:
After the carp has been fried, remove it to a platter lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve the breaded carp hot, alongside a slice of lemon and a fresh vegetable salad or fries to complete the meal.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the carp: Opt for fresh carp with firm flesh and a pleasant smell of water. If you can't find carp, you can also use other types of white fish, such as cod or trout.
- The oil: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish. Oil that is too cold will cause the breadcrumbs to absorb excess oil, and the crust will be soft instead of crispy.
- Oven version: For a healthier option, you can bake the carp in the oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C, place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Pairings and serving suggestions:
Breaded carp pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or tartar sauce. We recommend serving it with a glass of white wine or cold beer, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish. You can also try pairing it with a side of mashed potatoes or rice for a more substantial meal.

Nutritional benefits:
Carp is rich in quality protein and low in fat. It is a good source of B vitamins, which contribute to energy metabolism, and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat breadcrumbs? Yes, whole wheat breadcrumbs will add a richer flavor and interesting texture.
- How can I store leftover breaded carp? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.
- Can I freeze breaded carp? Yes, you can freeze it before frying. Place the fillets in an airtight container and keep them in the freezer. When you want to prepare them, thaw them in the refrigerator and then fry them according to the recipe.

With this breaded carp recipe, I invite you to discover a simple and delicious way to enjoy fish. I wish you good luck in cooking and bon appétit!