A table with trout

Fried Trout Recipe with Polenta and Garlic Sauce

Trout, a delicate and flavorful fish, has become a symbol of special moments spent with family, especially on holidays such as Mother's Day. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Let's explore together how to prepare the perfect fried trout, accompanied by creamy polenta and aromatic garlic sauce!

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Marinating time: 1 hour
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients:
For Trout:
- 4 fresh trouts (approximately 300-400 g each)
- Salt (to taste)
- Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil)
- Cornmeal (for coating)

For Polenta:
- 200 g cornmeal
- 1 liter of water
- Salt (to taste)

For Garlic Sauce:
- 1 head of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- Oil (3-4 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Trout
Start by cleaning and rinsing the trouts under cold running water. Make sure to remove all internal organs and scales. Once cleaned, sprinkle salt all over the fish, both inside and out. Let them rest in the refrigerator for about an hour so that the salt penetrates the flesh, giving them a perfect flavor.

2. Frying the Trout
After the trouts have been in the refrigerator, it's time to prepare them for frying. In a large skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat the oil over medium heat.

Meanwhile, prepare the cornmeal on a deep plate. Take the trouts out of the refrigerator and coat them well in the cornmeal, ensuring they are evenly covered.

When the oil is hot, carefully add the trouts to the skillet. Fry them for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Check that they are cooked through, then remove them onto a platter lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

3. Preparing the Polenta
In a small pot or saucepan, add 1 liter of water and a pinch of salt. Place it on the heat and bring it to a boil. When the water starts boiling, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring continuously with a whisk to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for 10-15 minutes until the polenta becomes thick and creamy. You can cover it with a lid and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

4. Preparing the Garlic Sauce
To add an extra flavor, prepare the garlic sauce. Peel the garlic and crush it with a bit of salt using a mortar and pestle. Gradually add oil while continuing to mix until you obtain a smooth paste. Finally, you can incorporate a teaspoon of mayonnaise for a richer taste.

Serving
Now that you have all the components ready, it's time to assemble the plate. On a platter, place the fried trout next to a generous serving of warm polenta. Serve the garlic sauce in small bowls so everyone can add it to their liking. A cold beer pairs perfectly with this dish, adding a touch of relaxation and good cheer.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing the Trout: Choose fresh trouts with firm flesh and no unpleasant smell. Ideally, you should find them at a trusted fish market.
- The Oil: Use an oil with a higher smoke point, such as sunflower oil, to avoid burning it during frying.
- The Polenta: If you want creamier polenta, you can add a bit of butter or feta cheese after it's done.
- The Garlic Sauce: If you're a garlic fan, you can add more garlic to the sauce or even a few drops of vinegar for a touch of acidity.

Nutritional Information:
This fried trout recipe is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. A serving of fried trout (approximately 200 g) contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Possible Variations:
- Baked Trout: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the trout instead of frying it. Wrap it in aluminum foil with herbs and lemon, then bake at 180°C for 20-25 minutes.
- Trout with Vegetables: Add vegetables such as zucchini or carrots to the skillet along with the trout for a more colorful and healthy dish.
- Garlic Sauce with Herbs: You can experiment with different herbs, such as dill or parsley, in your garlic sauce for an extra flavor boost.

So, I invite you to try this fried trout recipe with polenta and garlic sauce, a delicious combination that will delight the taste buds of all your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!