Crab in sesame crust

Sesame-Crusted Carp: A Crispy Delicacy Perfect for Family Dinners or Meals with Friends

When it comes to preparing fish, few recipes can rival sesame-crusted carp. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, offering a perfect balance of protein and healthy fats. Additionally, the crispy sesame crust gives it an irresistible texture and a presentable appearance that will impress any guest. Let's venture together into the world of flavors and discover how to prepare this delight step by step!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 6 pieces of carp (approximately 3 kg, cut)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 150 g sesame seeds
- 2 large eggs
- 100 g flour
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)
- Salt and ground pepper (to taste)

Preparing Sesame-Crusted Carp

Step 1: Preparing the Fish
Start by washing the carp pieces well under cold running water. This helps remove impurities and the specific smell. Let the fish drain for a few minutes, then drizzle it with lemon juice. The acidity of the lemon will not only add flavor but also help preserve the freshness of the fish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the pieces rest for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can penetrate well.

Step 2: Preparing the Batter
In a deep plate, beat the two eggs with a whisk or fork until fluffy. Gradually add the flour, continuously mixing until you achieve a consistency similar to thicker sour cream. If the batter is too thick, you can add a little sparkling or cold water to thin it out. This sparkling water will help achieve a crispier crust. Once you have the desired batter, place the sesame seeds on a separate plate.

Step 3: Coating the Fish
Take each piece of carp and first dip it in the egg and flour batter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, carefully roll each piece in the sesame seeds, making sure they adhere well. Gently shake each piece to remove excess sesame.

Step 4: Frying the Fish
Heat a deep pan with oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough but not smoking; otherwise, the crust will burn. Place the carp pieces in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them so they fry evenly. Let them fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Finally, remove the fish pieces onto an absorbent towel to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Serving
Sesame-crusted carp is delicious served warm, alongside a side of boiled potatoes with tomato sauce and capers, which adds a pleasant contrast of acidity and freshness. A green salad with lemon and olive oil pairs wonderfully, bringing extra vitamins and crunch.

Helpful Tips:
- Ensure the fish is fresh for the best results. Check the eyes, gills, and smell of the fish before purchasing.
- If you prefer a less greasy option, you can bake the fish in the oven at 200°C for about 25-30 minutes after coating it in sesame.
- You can also experiment with other seeds, such as poppy or flax seeds, to diversify the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits:
Carp is an excellent source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Sesame seeds add a good dose of calcium, iron, and antioxidants, making this dish not only a tasty choice but also a healthy one.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, but make sure it is well thawed and drained before preparing.
- What other sides do you recommend for this dish? Vegetable rice or mashed potatoes are excellent choices.
- How can I store leftovers? Fried carp keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 1-2 days. Reheat it in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Sesame-crusted carp is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for any occasion. Once you've tried making it, you'll definitely want to include it in your regular menu. So, don't hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family – they all deserve to taste this delicacy! Enjoy your meal!