Carp brine

Carp brine is a delicious recipe that you will love, both for its taste and for its simplicity in preparation. This traditional recipe brings a combination of flavors to the plate that will delight your senses. It is versatile and can be easily adapted, allowing you to experiment with different types of fish. Although today we are focusing on carp, feel free to try it with other fish species, such as crucian or trout. If you are looking for an exceptional dish, let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 5 fresh carp (approximately 1 kg total)
- 1 packet of fish spices (or you can use your favorite spice mix)
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1 hot pepper (you can adjust the amount to your liking)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Water (enough to cover the fish)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary utensils:
- Large pot for boiling
- Wooden spoon
- Spatula
- Serving plate
- A sharp knife

Preparing the fish:
1. Cleaning the fish: Start by cleaning the carp. Remove the scales, intestines, and gills. Wash it well under a stream of cold water to eliminate any residue.
2. Cutting: If you prefer, you can cut the fish into smaller pieces, but leave it whole for a more rustic look and to maintain juiciness.

Preparing the brine:
3. Boiling the water: Fill a large pot with water and put it on the heat. Add salt (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on your preference) and wait for it to reach boiling point.
4. Adding spices: Once the water is boiling, add the packet of fish spices, bay leaf, thyme, the cleaned and halved garlic, and the chopped hot pepper.
5. Boiling the fish: When the spices have infused the water, add the carp to the pot. Let it boil for about 15-20 minutes, until the meat is well cooked and easily separates from the bones.

Serving the brine:
6. Serving: Remove the fish from the pot using a spatula and carefully place it on a plate. You can add a few slices of garlic and hot pepper on top for a more appealing look.
7. The sauce: If desired, you can reduce the remaining liquid in the pot over medium heat for a few minutes to obtain a more concentrated sauce. Serve it alongside the fish.

Useful tips:
- Checking the freshness of the fish: When choosing the carp, make sure it has a fresh water smell, and that the eyes are clear and bright.
- Variations: You can experiment with herbs, adding dill or fresh parsley to the brine for a different taste. You can also replace the hot pepper with paprika for a milder flavor.
- Accompaniments: This brine pairs perfectly with polenta or a fresh vegetable salad. Also, a bottle of chilled white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits:
Carp is an excellent source of protein, being low in fat. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart and brain health. Garlic, in addition to its good taste, has antibacterial properties and can help strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of fish for this recipe? Absolutely! You can experiment with carp, trout, or other freshwater fish.
- How can I store the brine? Carp brine can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat the fish in the oven or on the stovetop.
- Is the brine spicy? The spiciness level is adjustable depending on the amount of hot pepper you add. If you prefer a milder taste, you can completely omit the pepper.

Enjoying a traditional dish like carp brine is a true joy. Surround yourself with loved ones and enjoy every bite, that is the key to a successful meal! I wish you good luck in cooking and don't forget to share your final result - I'm sure it will be spectacular!