Fried carp with tomato sauce and capers

Fried Carp with Tomato Sauce and Capers

When it comes to fish dishes, nothing compares to perfectly fried carp, accompanied by a vibrant tomato sauce with a hint of capers. This simple and delicious recipe will bring a touch of sunshine to your table, transforming an ordinary dinner into a memorable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the carp:
- 4 slices of carp (about 2.5-3 cm thick)
- 100 g of flour
- Oil for frying (preferably olive oil or vegetable oil)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the sauce:
- 4-5 ripe fresh tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons of capers
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2 bay leaves
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the carp
1. Cleaning and washing the fish: Start by scaling the carp slices. This can be done with a special knife or a fish cleaning tool. Make sure to remove all scales, as they can affect the texture and taste of the dish. After cleaning, rinse the slices under cold running water and let them drain in a colander.

2. Seasoning: Season each piece of carp with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavors of the fish. Then, coat each slice in flour, ensuring it is evenly covered. Shake them gently to remove excess flour.

Step 2: Frying the carp
3. Heating the oil: In a large skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat over medium heat. The oil should be hot before adding the fish to achieve a crispy crust.

4. Frying: Place the carp slices in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the fish for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Once done, remove the slices onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Preparing the tomato sauce
5. Preparing the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes and peel them. A quick method to peel them is to plunge them for a few seconds in boiling water, then transfer them immediately to cold water. This will make the skin come off easily. The tomatoes can be puréed using a blender or simply with a fork, depending on your preference.

6. Cooking the sauce: In the same skillet, add a little olive oil and heat it. Add the crushed garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden. Then, add the puréed tomatoes, capers, lemon juice, sugar, and bay leaves. Mix well and let the sauce simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serving: Remove the bay leaves from the sauce and let it cool slightly. Pour the tomato and caper sauce into a serving dish. Serve the fried carp alongside the sauce, with a side of fried new potatoes or steamed vegetables. A fresh salad can add an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips
- Choosing the fish: Opt for fresh carp with white, firm flesh. If you can’t find carp, you can also use other types of fish, such as perch or trout.
- Seasonings: Experiment with various herbs, such as dill or parsley, to add a note of freshness to the sauce.
- Sauce variations: You can add sliced black olives or roasted red peppers to enrich the sauce's flavor.
- Oil: Use a high-quality oil for frying, such as extra virgin olive oil, for a more intense and healthy taste.

Nutritional benefits
Carp is an excellent source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Tomatoes provide lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while capers add vitamins and minerals. This dish is not only delicious but also beneficial for your health.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before preparation to avoid excess water.
- Can I prepare the sauce in advance? Absolutely! The tomato sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. You can reheat it before serving.
- What side dishes go best? Besides fried potatoes, you can serve carp with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Personal story
I fondly remember the moments spent with family around the table, where this fried carp was always the star of the evening. Its enticing aroma filled the house, and each bite was a perfect combination of crispy and juicy. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a way to create beautiful memories with loved ones.

I encourage you to try this delicious recipe. It will transport you to a world of flavors and textures, and your family and friends will surely love your dish! Enjoy your meal!