Baked sea bream

Oven-Baked Dorada - A Holiday Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 3

Today, I invite you to prepare a delicious oven-baked dorada recipe together, a dish that brings joy and flavor to your table. Dorada, a fish appreciated for its white and delicate flesh, is perfect for a special occasion or simply to celebrate the taste of the sea.

A Brief History of Dorada

Dorada is a fish from the Sparidae family, renowned for its tasty meat and fine texture. This fish has been consumed for centuries in maritime regions, considered a symbol of prosperity and health. Baked in the oven, dorada retains its juiciness and flavors, becoming an exceptionally savory dish.

Necessary Ingredients

- 3 fresh doradas (approximately 400-500 g each)
- 2 green onions
- 1 green garlic stalk
- Fish spices (from Kotanyi or any preferred variant)
- 1 lemon
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 30 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 30 ml dry white wine
- A bunch of fresh dill
- 1 large carrot

Step by Step to a Perfect Result

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning the doradas of scales, carefully removing all impurities. This is an essential step, as the scales can affect the texture and final appearance of the dish. Remove the gills and internal organs, then rinse the fish under cold running water.

2. Draining the doradas: After cleaning the fish, place it on a kitchen towel to drain excess water. This step helps achieve a crispier skin during baking.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the carrot and cut it into thin sticks. The green onions and garlic should be cleaned and finely chopped. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to the dish, and the carrot will create a bed for the doradas to sit on.

4. Seasoning the fish: Season the doradas both inside and out with the fish spices. Add lemon slices to the belly of each dorada to enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle freshly ground pepper for an extra touch of flavor.

5. Arranging in the baking dish: In a baking dish, place the carrot sticks as a base. This will not only add a splash of color but also prevent the fish from sticking to the bottom of the dish. Place the doradas on top of the carrots.

6. Adding final flavors: On top of the doradas, add the chopped onions and garlic, a few extra lemon slices, and sprinkle fresh dill. Drizzle everything with olive oil and white wine, which will add moisture and flavor during baking.

7. Baking in the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (moderate heat). Place the dish with the doradas in the oven and let it bake for 40 minutes. During baking, the flavors will combine, and the fish will become perfectly cooked and juicy.

8. Serving the dish: After 40 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. The dorada can be served directly from the dish, along with the vegetables from the tray and fresh lemon slices. It’s a dish that everyone will enjoy!

Practical Tips and Variations

- Choose fresh doradas: Ensure that the fish is fresh, with clear eyes and firm flesh. This will significantly influence the taste and texture of the dish.

- Vary the flavors: You can add herbs according to your preferences, such as thyme or rosemary, to customize the recipe.

- Suitable side dishes: This oven-baked dorada pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine would ideally complement the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Absolutely! The recipe can be adapted for almost any white fish, such as perch or trout.

2. How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish is cooked when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Check the internal temperature, which should be around 63 degrees Celsius.

3. What can I do with leftovers?
If you have leftovers, you can turn them into a fish salad or a delicious sandwich.

Nutritional Benefits

Dorada is an excellent source of protein, vitamins B12 and D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health. By consuming dorada, you not only indulge your taste buds but also provide essential nutrients to your body.

In conclusion, oven-baked dorada is a simple yet elegant recipe that will impress everyone at your table. With these tips and details, you are on the right path to creating a memorable dish. Enjoy your meal!