Fish fillet on baked potatoes (malasorca)

Fish Fillet on Potatoes Baked (Malasorca)

Who would have thought that such a simple recipe could bring so much flavor to your table? Today, I propose we prepare together a delight that has its roots in the fishing traditions of the Delta, called Malasorca. This is a dish that, although referred to as "the poor man's food" or "the lazy man's food," will surprise you with its flavor and ease of preparation. Whether you make it for Palm Sunday, when fish is allowed, or on any other day, this dish will surely become a family favorite.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 600 g fish fillet (preferably white fish, such as cod or tilapia)
- 7-8 medium potatoes (approximately 800 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fish spices (herb mix, paprika, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon base for dishes (optional)
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon juice (optional, for serving)

Step by Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Do not peel them, as the skin will add texture and nutrients. Once clean, cut them into suitable cubes, about 2-3 cm, so they bake evenly.

2. Seasoning the Fish
The fish fillets should be well seasoned. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and the fish spice mix on both sides of the fillets. You can also add a few drops of olive oil to help the spices adhere better. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes.

3. Preparing the Baking Dish
Take a heat-resistant glass dish and place the potato cubes in it. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic slices, and, if desired, a teaspoon of base for dishes. Mix the ingredients well so that the potatoes are evenly coated.

4. Cooking the Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish with potatoes in the oven and let them bake for 20 minutes. This step is essential to ensure that the potatoes become soft and flavorful before adding the fish.

5. Adding the Fish
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven (be careful, it will be very hot!). Arrange the fish fillets on top of the potatoes, making sure to distribute them evenly. Put everything back in the oven for another 10 minutes. The fish will cook quickly, and the flavors will blend perfectly with those of the potatoes.

6. Finishing the Dish
Once the baking time has elapsed, remove the dish from the oven. You will be greeted by a delicious aroma that will stimulate your senses! Let the dish rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, drizzle with lemon juice for a fresh note.

Serving
Serve hot, straight from the oven, without bread, making it a healthy and low-calorie choice. You can accompany this dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for an extra touch of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Fish is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber. Together, these ingredients form a nutritionally balanced dish.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use any type of fish?
Yes, you can use any type of white fish, but make sure it is fresh for the best results.

- What other vegetables can I add?
You can add carrots, zucchini, or onion to enrich this recipe. These vegetables will bake together with the potatoes and will add extra flavor.

- How can I adapt the recipe to make it spicier?
Add some chili flakes or hot paprika to the fish spice mix for a more intense flavor.

Serving Suggestions
A glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade will pair perfectly with a serving of fish fillet on potatoes. Additionally, a serving of Greek yogurt with garlic and cucumbers can add a refreshing and creamy note, balancing the dish's flavors.

Tips and Shortcuts
If you want to save time, you can use pre-peeled and cut potatoes, which you can find in most supermarkets. Also, olive oil can be replaced with sunflower oil for a more neutral taste, but always keep olive oil for that touch of refinement.

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to get to work! Malasorca is more than just a recipe; it's a culinary experience you can share with your loved ones. Don't forget to share your impressions and bring this recipe into your life and those around you. Enjoy your meal!