Fried catfish with polenta and garlic

Delicious Recipe for Fried Carp with Polenta and Fresh Garlic

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Fried carp with polenta and fresh garlic is a traditional recipe that brings a harmony of flavors and textures, perfect for moments when you want to indulge in a simple yet delicious dish. The history of this dish is closely linked to the culinary traditions of many communities, where fresh fish was considered a delicacy. This recipe combines the flavor of fried carp with the creaminess of polenta, while the fresh garlic completes the flavor profile.

Ingredients:

*For fried carp:*
- 6 carp (approximately 1.8 kg)
- 50 g flour
- Coarse salt
- Oil for frying

*For polenta:*
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 6 cups water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 50 g butter

*For garlic sauce:*
- 1 head of fresh garlic

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the fish:
Start by cleaning the carp. Remove the scales, cut off the heads, and remove the entrails. Rinse the fish well under running water, ensuring no impurities remain.

*Helpful tips:* Choose fresh fish with firm flesh. Carp is an excellent choice due to its delicate flavor.

2. Marinating the fish:
Sprinkle coarse salt on the fish, making sure to cover all parts evenly. Leave it in a colander for an hour. This step is essential, as the salt will help draw out excess water and enhance the fish's flavor.

*Frequently asked question:* Why use coarse salt? It absorbs only what is necessary, without overly salting the fish.

3. Preparing the polenta:
In a pot, add the 6 cups of water along with the salt and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat and sprinkle in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

*Tip:* You can use a whisk to stir the polenta for a smoother texture.

4. Cooking the polenta:
Continue to boil the polenta for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. When it is nearly done, add the butter, stirring well to melt and incorporate it. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes.

*Serving notes:* The polenta can be poured onto a wooden board or into a bowl, taking care to shape it evenly.

5. Preparing the fish:
After the fish has sat with salt for an hour, shake off the excess salt and roll it in flour, coating it evenly. In a pan, heat the oil and fry the carp on both sides until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes on each side.

*Personal suggestion:* Add a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary to the oil to infuse it with extra flavors.

6. Preparing the garlic sauce:
Peel the garlic, and if you prefer, you can make a simple garlic sauce by crushing the garlic cloves with a bit of salt. It’s wonderful to use fresh garlic, as the flavor is milder and less intense.

*Frequently asked question:* How can the garlic sauce be adapted? You can add a bit of olive oil and lemon juice to achieve a smoother and more flavorful emulsion.

7. Serving:
On a plate, place the warm polenta, and top it with the fried carp. Drizzle with fresh garlic sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

*Serving suggestion:* You can add a fresh vegetable salad or pickles to balance the dish's taste.

Nutritional benefits: Carp is an excellent source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Polenta provides complex carbohydrates, while garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Combinations and variations: This recipe can be adapted using other types of fish, such as trout or salmon. You can also experiment with other spices and herbs to customize the dish.

Conclusion: Fried carp with polenta and garlic is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. Try making it and enjoy the culinary memories it can bring around the table. Enjoy your meal!