Grilled carp with garlic sauce

Grilled Carp with Garlic Sauce - A Delicious Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

A Journey into the World of Flavors

Grilled carp is a recipe that evokes memories of summer, outdoor parties, and meals with loved ones. With tender and juicy meat, carp is one of the most sought-after fish for grilling. This simple and quick recipe, accompanied by a tasty garlic sauce, will transform any meal into a feast of flavor. Let’s discover together the necessary steps to achieve the perfect grilled carp, along with some useful tricks and tips.

Ingredients:

- 1 carp (2-3 kg)
- 500 ml white wine (choose a dry wine for a more intense flavor)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 3 large tomatoes (fresh, preferably from the garden)
- 6 cloves of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (optional, for added flavor)

Important Preliminary Steps

1. Choosing the carp: When buying carp, make sure the fish is fresh, with a pleasant smell of the sea. The skin should be smooth, and the eyes clear. If you have the chance to catch it fresh, even better!

2. White wine: The wine is not just a marinating ingredient, but also an element that will enhance the flavor of the fish. Choose a dry wine with citrus notes that pairs perfectly with carp meat.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the carp

Start by scaling the carp and gutting it. Make sure to remove all the internal organs and wash it well under cold running water. Cut it into suitable pieces so that it cooks evenly on the grill. Don’t forget to keep the head and tail; they can add a rustic look to the dish.

2. Marinating

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the white wine, one tablespoon of salt, and one teaspoon of pepper. Mix well to dissolve the salt. Then, add the pieces of carp, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for one hour. This is the stage where the flavors intensify, and the fish becomes tastier.

3. Preparing the garlic sauce

While the carp is marinating, it’s time to prepare the garlic sauce. Peel the six cloves of garlic and place them in a mortar or grater. Add a little olive oil and salt, then crush or rub well until you obtain a smooth paste. Add the peeled tomatoes, diced, and mix well. The garlic sauce with tomatoes will add a fresh and aromatic contrast to the grilled carp.

4. Grilling

Preheat the grill to a medium-high temperature. If the grill is hot enough, place the pieces of carp on it. Cook each side for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the pieces. When you flip the fish, drizzle it with the remaining wine from the marinade to add moisture and flavor. If you have leftover tomatoes, you can add them to the grill in the last 5 minutes of cooking; they will roast slightly and become delicious.

5. Serving

When the carp is cooked, remove it from the grill and place it on a platter. Drizzle it with fresh lemon juice for added freshness. Serve it warm alongside the garlic sauce with tomatoes and, if desired, add lemon slices for decoration. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of grilled vegetables.

Useful Tips

- Variations of the garlic sauce: You can add a tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley to the garlic sauce for extra flavor.
- Alternative to wine: If you prefer, you can use white beer instead of wine for a less acidic marinade, but it will still provide a delicious taste.
- Complementing the dish: A well-chosen white wine will perfectly complement this dish. I recommend a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay to accompany the flavors of the fish.

Nutritional Benefits

Carp is an excellent source of quality protein, low in saturated fats, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, garlic has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to a stronger immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What other fish can I use for this recipe?
Besides carp, you can use salmon, trout, or tilapia, all of which have succulent meat suitable for grilling.

2. How can I keep the carp fresh before cooking?
Keep the carp in a cool environment, covered with plastic wrap, until you are ready to cook it. Consuming fresh fish is always the best option.

3. Can I prepare this carp in the oven?
Sure! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the carp in the oven wrapped in aluminum foil at 180°C for 25-30 minutes.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to prepare delicious grilled carp, all that’s left is to gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy every bite! This simple and quick recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also create beautiful memories. Enjoy your meal!