Fried carp in cornmeal

For all fish lovers and traditional dishes, I present to you a delicious recipe for fried carp in cornmeal, a simple yet flavorful dish that will surely bring unforgettable aromas to your table. This meal is perfect for a family dinner or even for a gathering with friends. Besides its delightful taste, fried carp is a versatile ingredient that can be served with various side dishes, but today we will focus on a classic combination: polenta and garlic sauce.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Frying time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 piece of carp (approximately 1 kg, cleaned)
- 3 tablespoons of cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing fried carp: a step-by-step guide

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning the carp. It is important to remove all the entrails and rinse the fish under cold running water to remove impurities. After cleaning, cut it into bite-sized pieces. These will be easier to fry and serve.

2. Seasoning: After cutting the carp, let it drain for a few minutes in a sieve or on a paper towel. This step is crucial, as well-drained fish will have a crispier texture after frying. Season the fish pieces with salt and pepper on both sides for a more intense flavor.

3. Preparing the flour mix: In a bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of cornmeal with 1 tablespoon of flour. The cornmeal will give that crispy crust, while the flour will help bind the ingredients. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition.

4. Heating the oil: In a deep frying pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat the oil over medium to high heat. A simple trick to check if the oil is hot enough is to throw a small amount of the cornmeal mixture. If it sizzles immediately, you are ready to fry.

5. Frying the carp: Dip each piece of carp in the cornmeal and flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated on all sides. Place the fish pieces in the pan, but be careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

6. Removing the fish: Use a spatula to remove the fried carp from the pan and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. This step will keep the fish crispy.

7. Serving: Now that the fish is ready, it’s time to serve it! It is recommended to accompany it with warm polenta and garlic sauce. The polenta will perfectly complement the intense flavor of the carp, while the garlic sauce will add a touch of freshness.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the fish; this will help achieve a crispy crust.
- If you want a healthier option, you can bake the fish instead of frying it, adding your favorite spices and a little olive oil.
- You can experiment with other types of fish, such as salmon or trout, which pair well with this recipe.

Nutritional information:
Carp is an excellent source of protein, providing about 20-25 g of protein per 100 g of fish. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. Polenta, rich in complex carbohydrates, provides sustainable energy, while the garlic in the sauce offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, any white fish, such as trout or tilapia, can be used. Just make sure to adjust the frying time based on the thickness of the fillet.
2. How can I make garlic sauce?
For the sauce, crush a few cloves of garlic with salt, add water, and mix well. You can add olive oil for a richer flavor.
3. What side dishes go well with this dish?
Besides polenta, you can serve fried carp with a fresh vegetable salad or French fries for a heartier meal.

Delicious variations:
For an exotic touch, add spices like paprika or turmeric to the cornmeal mixture. You can also try replacing the garlic sauce with garlic mayonnaise or tzatziki sauce for a different flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get started! In no time, you will enjoy a delicious fried carp in cornmeal, accompanied by polenta and garlic sauce, a simple yet flavorful and traditional recipe. Enjoy your meal!