Baked carp with vegetables

Oven-Baked Carp with Vegetables: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

This oven-baked carp recipe is not only a healthy choice but also a delicious option for a family meal or a special dinner. Combining fresh fish with flavorful and seasoned vegetables, you create a dish that not only blends tastes but also offers an explosion of colors on the plate. Baking is a wonderful technique as it allows the ingredients to combine and reveal their flavors harmoniously.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1-1.5 kg carp, cleaned and cut into larger pieces
- 1 medium eggplant
- 1 large carrot
- 2 medium onions
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 kapia pepper
- 1 head of garlic
- Peppercorns, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper, to taste
- 10 champignon mushrooms
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped

A Brief History of the Recipe

Baked fish is a classic dish appreciated in many cultures. This oven-baked carp recipe pays homage to the tradition of combining fish with the freshest available vegetables. Baking the fish not only makes the meat more tender but also helps retain nutrients, making this dish a healthy choice.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cleaning and washing all vegetables. Cut the carrot, eggplant, onion, and peppers into rounds. Ensure that the vegetables are of similar sizes for even cooking.

2. Preparing the Baking Dish
Choose a ceramic dish, ideal for retaining heat and distributing temperature evenly. Arrange the vegetable rounds at the bottom of the dish, creating a colorful and aromatic bed for the fish.

3. Adding the Carp
Place the pieces of carp on top of the vegetables. If you prefer, you can marinate the fish with a little crushed garlic and lemon juice before adding it to the dish for extra flavor.

4. Preparing the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the wine, water, vegetable seasoning, peppercorns, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. This will be the sauce that flavors the fish and vegetables. Pour the sauce evenly over the carp.

5. Adding Mushrooms and Tomatoes
Slice the champignon mushrooms and cut the tomatoes into rounds. Arrange them around the carp, adding extra flavor and texture to the dish.

6. Finalizing the Dish
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of freshness and color.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 35-45 minutes, until the carp is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't dry out.

8. Serving
When the carp is ready, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it with a fresh green salad or a side of white rice or boiled potatoes.

Useful Tips

- Choosing the Fish: Make sure the fish is fresh. Buy it from a reliable supplier and check for a pleasant sea smell, without being too strong.
- Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables depending on the season or preferences, such as zucchini, celery, or broccoli.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade.

Nutritional Information

Carp is an excellent source of protein, containing heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The vegetables provide significant amounts of vitamins and minerals, and the baking method helps maintain the nutritional values of the ingredients. A serving of this dish contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the exact quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, but make sure it is well-thawed before cooking.

2. What else can I add to the recipe?
You can add olives or capers for an extra flavor boost.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a diet?
Yes, it is a healthy option, rich in protein and vegetables, ideal for a balanced diet.

Conclusion

This oven-baked carp recipe is not just a delicious meal but also a perfect way to bring fresh fish and vegetables to your table. With just a few simple ingredients and an easy cooking method, you can create a dish that will impress all your loved ones. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and experiment with various flavors to customize the recipe to your taste. Enjoy your meal!