Fried fish

Fried fish with garlic sauce and polenta - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't nostalgically remember family meals where fried fish was the star of the evening? Its inviting aroma, crunchy texture, and savory taste remind us of the simple joy of traditional dishes. Today, I will share a special recipe for frying fish, using catfish, a fish with tender white flesh, perfect for frying. This recipe is not only simple but also offers the opportunity to experiment with fresh ingredients and enjoy a comforting meal.

The history of this recipe runs deep in culinary traditions, where fish has always been an accessible food, often caught by local fishermen. Catfish, with its rich and juicy flesh, has been preferred by many, and frying it has become a popular way to savor it. Now, let’s get started!

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of catfish (or your preferred fish)
- Salt, to taste
- Flour, for coating
- Oil for frying (approximately 500 ml)
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- Cornmeal, for polenta (approximately 200 g)

Step 1: Cleaning the fish
The first step in preparing fried catfish is cleaning it. Use a rounded, not very sharp knife to remove the gills. Start by grabbing the gills and, with a firm motion, run the knife to remove the intestines. This method is simple, and cleaning the fish becomes a quick task. Once you have cleaned the fish, wash it well under cold water and sprinkle salt on it. Let it marinate for an hour. This will not only add flavor but also help eliminate any unpleasant odors.

Step 2: Preparing the garlic sauce
Meanwhile, prepare the garlic sauce, a traditional accompaniment for fish. Peel the head of garlic and crush it well. Mix the crushed garlic with olive oil to enhance its aroma. Add the tomatoes, which you have blanched and grated, to create a fine paste. This garlic sauce will add a fresh and aromatic taste to the fried fish.

Step 3: Preparing the polenta
To accompany the fish, we cannot forget the polenta! In a pot, bring water (approximately 800 ml) to a boil. When the water is boiling, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the polenta for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes thick and creamy. Once ready, let it cool slightly, then you can cut it into slices.

Step 4: Frying the fish
Meanwhile, prepare the pan with hot oil. Coat each piece of fish in flour, removing the excess, and carefully place them in the pan. Fry the fish over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove it onto paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

Step 5: Serving
Now that all the work is done, it’s time to serve! Place the fried fish on plates, alongside slices of steaming polenta and garlic sauce. This combination is simply irresistible!

Practical tips:
- If you want a crunchier fish, try adding a bit of breadcrumbs to the flour mixture.
- You can experiment with different types of fish, such as carp or trout, to achieve varied flavors.
- For a spicy taste, add a bit of crushed chili pepper to the garlic sauce.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
- Yes, make sure to fully thaw the fish before cleaning and cooking.

2. How can I store polenta?
- Polenta can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a pan.

3. What side dishes go well with fried fish?
- A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables pair perfectly with fish.

This recipe for fried fish with garlic sauce and polenta not only brings a touch of nostalgia to the plate but is also an excellent way to savor fresh ingredients and create unforgettable moments with loved ones. So, I invite you to try this recipe at home and enjoy a delicious meal full of flavors and tradition. Enjoy your meal!