Fried fish

Delicious recipe for fried fish with polenta and lemon

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

Introduction

I propose a simple and quick recipe for preparing fried fish, a dish that brings an authentic taste, full of flavor. This recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether you are looking for a quick dinner or a special breakfast. Fried fish is a classic dish that has been enjoyed over time, in different cultures, for its crispy texture and unmistakable aroma. Combined with creamy polenta and a slice of lemon, the result is a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

- 600 g fish (you can use cod fillets, pikeperch, or sea bream)
- 100 g flour
- Salt to taste
- 100 ml olive oil (for frying)
- 1 lemon (for serving)
- 400 g polenta (for garnish)
- Garlic (optional, for flavor)

Ingredient details

Fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for cardiovascular health. Flour plays an important role in creating a crispy crust, and olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also brings nutritional benefits. Lemon adds a touch of acidity that perfectly balances the taste of fried fish.

Preparing the polenta

Before starting with the fish, I suggest preparing the polenta. Boil 1 liter of water with a teaspoon of salt, then gradually add 200 g of cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the polenta becomes creamy and pulls away from the sides of the pot. Once ready, you can cover it with a lid to keep it warm.

Preparing the fish

1. Wash the fish under a stream of cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water.
2. Cut the fish into suitable pieces, depending on your preferences. Smaller pieces fry faster, while larger ones may require a longer cooking time.
3. In a deep bowl, mix the flour with salt to taste. I recommend using sea salt to add a more intense flavor.
4. Dip each piece of fish in the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

Frying the fish

5. In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish. A simple method to check the temperature is to toss a small piece of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, it's ready.
6. Fry the fish pieces on each side for 3-4 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow the fish to fry evenly.
7. Once the fish is ready, remove it to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving

8. Place the fried fish pieces on a plate and serve them alongside warm polenta. Offer a slice of lemon to add a touch of freshness and, if desired, a few chopped garlic cloves for an intense flavor.
9. You can also add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an extra splash of color and taste.

Useful tips

- If you want an even crispier crust, you can add a little cornstarch to the flour mixture.
- For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the fish in lemon juice and garlic a few hours before cooking.
- Instead of polenta, you can serve the fried fish with a fresh vegetable salad or fried potatoes for a more traditional option.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of fried fish with polenta contains approximately 400–600 calories, depending on the type of fish and the amount of oil used. This meal provides an excellent source of protein, being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain brain and heart health.

Frequently asked questions

1. What type of fish is best for frying?
- You can use any type of white fish, but cod, pikeperch, or sea bream are the most suitable due to their texture.

2. Can I use other types of flour?
- Yes, you can experiment with corn flour or buckwheat flour for a gluten-free option.

3. How can I keep the fried fish from getting soggy?
- Make sure the fish is fried at the right temperature and let it rest on a paper towel, so it absorbs excess oil.

4. What other side dishes can I combine with this dish?
- Besides polenta, fried fish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a sautéed vegetable side.

Personal story

I fondly remember the moments spent with family when my mother would prepare this fried fish with polenta every Friday night. It was a tradition that brought the whole family to the table, and the aroma of fried fish filled the house with joy. This simple yet flavorful dish became a symbol of reunion and family love.

Possible variations

If you are looking for variations, you can try adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy flavor. You can also experiment with different sauces to accompany the fish, such as tzatziki sauce or fresh tomato sauce.

In conclusion, this recipe for fried fish with polenta is not only simple but also full of flavor and nostalgia. I invite you to try this recipe and share the result with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!