Crispy fried fish with garlic sauce in tomato sauce

Crispy carp with garlic sauce in tomato sauce

When it comes to traditional dishes, few can rival the taste and aroma of a fried, crispy carp accompanied by a savory garlic sauce. This recipe is based on a fresh ingredient that you can find in nearby lakes or perhaps receive as a gift from someone passionate about fishing. It is a simple dish, but full of flavor, perfect for a family meal or a dinner with friends.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 kg of fresh carp (choose fish of varying sizes for an interesting texture)
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the fish in the pan)
- Salt
- 200 g of cornmeal (for a crispy crust)
- 1 head of garlic (about 10-12 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil (to enhance the garlic sauce)
- 1 large country tomato (for a delicious sauce)
- 3 sprigs of fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- Ground pepper (to taste)

History of the recipe:

The recipe for fried carp with garlic sauce has its roots in popular culinary traditions, being a dish that has been prepared for generations. This combination of fried fish and garlic sauce is often associated with summer meals, when fresh fish is abundantly available. Reaching our tables, this dish not only brings a unique taste but also beautiful memories, often linked to moments spent in nature, by the water.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning the carp. Rinse the fish under cold running water, then scale and gut them. This is an essential step that will influence the final taste. After cleaning, place the fish on an absorbent towel to dry well.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt on the fish, both inside and out. This will help intensify the flavors. Let them sit for 10 minutes to absorb the salt well.

3. Crispy crust: In a bowl, place the cornmeal. Dredge each fish in the cornmeal, ensuring it is well coated. This crust will become crispy during frying, providing a delicious texture.

4. Frying: Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish; a simple way to check is to drop a small piece of cornmeal into the oil. If it sizzles, it's time to add the fish. Fry the fish on each side for 5-7 minutes or until golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them.

5. Preparing the garlic sauce: Meanwhile, prepare the garlic sauce. Peel the head of garlic and crush the cloves in a mortar or with a food processor. Add a little salt and mix well. Rub the resulting paste with a teaspoon of olive oil and occasionally sprinkle with vinegar to temper the pungency.

6. Tomato sauce: Peel the tomato (you can blanch it for a few minutes to make peeling easier) and crush it. Add the crushed tomato to the garlic sauce, along with the finely chopped parsley. Mix well, and finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving suggestions: Serve the crispy carp alongside the garlic sauce and, if available, a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers, which will add freshness to the meal. Although you didn't prepare polenta this time, a serving of warm polenta would be a perfect accompaniment to this dish.

Variations: You can experiment with different herbs in the garlic sauce, such as dill or basil, to add a unique note. You can also use other types of fish, such as crucian or trout, which pair well with this recipe.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and dry them well before frying.
- What other sides can I use? Besides salad, you can opt for fried potatoes or mashed potatoes, which pair well with the garlic sauce.
- How can I make the garlic sauce less pungent? By adding more olive oil and vinegar, you can temper the strong garlic flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of fried carp contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Carp is a good source of protein, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Garlic has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, making this dish a healthy choice.

In conclusion, crispy carp with garlic sauce in tomato sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can bring joy both in the kitchen and at the table. Whether it's a weekend dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely impress! So, go fishing or look for fresh fish at the market and prepare this delight at home!