Dorado with coconut milk

Dorada with coconut milk is a recipe that combines culinary influences from different corners of the world, bringing an explosion of sophisticated flavors and a delicate yet distinct taste to your plate. This recipe was inspired by rich culinary traditions and has been successfully adopted in the British Isles, where it has enjoyed growing popularity. The fish cooks quickly, and the rich sauce made from coconut milk and spices enriches every bite, transforming the meal into a memorable gastronomic experience.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 1 whole dorada, cleaned (approximately 400 g)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 cloves of garlic, grated
- 2 teaspoons of curry mix
- 2-3 tablespoons of yogurt
- 200 ml of coconut milk
- 1/2 bunch of parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of rice oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 stick of cinnamon (approximately 3-4 cm long)
- salt, to taste
- grated lemon zest, for garnish
- fresh parsley leaves, for garnish

1. Preparing the fish:
Start by salting the dorada, both inside and out, to enhance its flavor. Then, drizzle the fish with half of the lemon juice. This step will not only add a fresh note but will also help retain moisture in the fish during cooking. Place the dorada in a heat-resistant dish, ready to receive the aromatic sauce.

2. Preparing the sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the tomato paste, grated garlic, curry mix, yogurt, salt, and coconut milk. Add the remaining lemon juice and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of water to thin it out, achieving the perfect consistency.

3. The flavors:
In a large skillet, heat the rice oil over medium heat. Add the bay leaf and cinnamon stick, frying them for about 30 seconds while stirring continuously. This step will release the intense flavors of the spices, enriching your sauce.

4. Cooking the sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture from the bowl into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes. It will become a flavorful and creamy base that will coat the dorada.

5. Cooking the dorada:
Pour the hot sauce over the dorada in the dish, ensuring that the fish is nearly fully covered. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let the dorada bake for 20-25 minutes, until the flesh becomes opaque and easily flakes off the bones.

6. Serving:
Once the fish is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Transfer the dorada to individual plates, drizzling it with the sauce from the dish. For an appealing presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated lemon zest. Serve this dish alongside boiled rice or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Useful tips:
- You can adapt the recipe using other types of fish, such as bass or salmon, but cooking times may vary.
- Make sure to use high-quality coconut milk to achieve a rich and creamy flavor.
- If you enjoy spicy flavors, you can add some chopped chili to the sauce.
- This recipe pairs excellently with a dry white wine or a light craft beer.

Nutritional benefits:
Dorada is an excellent source of quality protein, being low in fat. Coconut milk adds a creamy note and is rich in essential fatty acids, which can be beneficial for heart health. Garlic, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, perfectly complements this dish.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use light coconut milk? Yes, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy.
- What can I do with leftover sauce? You can use the remaining sauce to make a delicious soup or as a base for other recipes.
- How can I store leftover dorada? You can keep the cooked fish in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Dorada with coconut milk is more than just a meal; it is a culinary journey that will take you from the exotic flavors of India to the comfort of a home-cooked dinner. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and impress your loved ones with a refined and flavorful dish! Enjoy!