Crispy fried small fish

Fishing has always been a cherished activity, not only for the food it provides but also for the moments of relaxation and connection with nature. Preparing fish is an ancient tradition, and fish recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, bringing with them stories and memories. Today, I invite you to discover a delicious recipe for crispy fried fish, perfect for holidays or a family meal. This recipe is simple, quick, and most importantly, it will bring a healthy and tasty dish to your table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Frying time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 600 g small fish (perch, redfin, bream of 10-15 cm)
- Salt (to taste)
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)
- Lemon slices (optional, for serving)
- Sauces (garlic sauce, tomato sauce, brine - optional but recommended)
- Polenta (optional but recommended for serving)

An important detail about the ingredients

To achieve crispy and delicious fish, it is important to choose fresh fish. Buy them from a trusted supplier and ensure they have a shiny appearance, without any unpleasant smell. Before cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. You can use any type of small fish, but perch and redfin are excellent choices due to their tender flesh and delicate flavor.

Step by step for perfect fried fish

1. Cleaning the fish: Start by cleaning the fish of scales, intestines, heads, and tails. Using a good knife can make this step much easier. If you lack experience in cleaning fish, don't worry; with a little patience, you'll quickly become an expert. If you wish, you can use the heads and tails to prepare a delicious fish soup.

2. Washing the fish: After cleaning the fish, rinse them gently under cold water to remove any residues. This step is essential for obtaining a clean and healthy dish.

3. Salting: Let the fish drain on absorbent towels for a few minutes. Then, salt them on both sides to taste. The salt will not only enhance the flavor of the fish but will also contribute to its crispiness during frying.

4. Frying the fish: In a large pan, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. It is important that the oil is well heated before adding the fish. If the oil is not hot enough, the fish will soak up the oil and will not achieve that desired crispy crust. Place the fish in the pan without overlapping, to allow for even frying. Fry them over medium heat, turning them carefully, until they turn golden on both sides. This process takes about 10-12 minutes.

5. Removing the fish from the pan: Once the fish are ready, remove them to a plate covered with absorbent towels to remove excess oil. This step is essential for keeping the dish light and crispy.

Serving

The fried fish is served hot, accompanied by lemon slices and various sauces, such as garlic sauce, tomato sauce, or brine. Polenta is optional but adds extra flavor and consistency to the meal. You can prepare it simply with water and salt, or enrich it with cheese and sour cream for a more intense flavor.

Variations and serving suggestions

To diversify the recipe, you can experiment with different types of fish or try adding spices such as paprika, pepper, or garlic powder to the salt mixture. You can also try frying the fish in cornmeal or breadcrumbs for an even crispier crust.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, frozen fish can be used, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking.

2. What sauces pair best with fried fish?
Garlic sauce is classic and very popular, but a spicy tomato sauce or a flavorful brine are also excellent choices.

3. Can I prepare the fish in a healthy way?
Yes, you can bake or grill the fish using a little oil and spices to avoid frying.

Nutritional benefits

Fish is an excellent source of quality protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart and brain health. It is also low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Conclusion

This crispy fried fish recipe is not only simple and quick but also full of flavor and tradition. With a little patience and attention to detail, you will achieve an exceptional dish, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Don't forget to try various variations and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!