Fried fish with garlic

Fried Zander with Garlic: A Tasty and Comforting Recipe

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will share with you a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe: fried zander with garlic. This recipe is not only perfect for a weekend meal but also for special occasions, offering you an authentic taste and an attractive presentation. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 6 pieces of zander (approximately 300 g each)
- 6 tablespoons of cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of hot paprika
- 1 head of garlic
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley
- 1 lemon
- 2-3 slices of orange
- 2-3 peppers
- 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar
- 300 ml of oil for frying
- Salt, pepper, thyme to taste

The story behind the recipe

Zander is a fish with white, fine, and juicy flesh, appreciated by many cultures for its refined taste. Today's dish is a slightly adapted version that blends tradition with innovation, offering you a memorable culinary experience. Garlic, with its unmistakable aroma, adds an extra flavor, while citrus fruits like lemon and orange provide a pleasant contrast and a hint of freshness.

Techniques and tips for a perfect result

1. Cleaning the fish: Make sure to avoid bitterness by carefully cleaning the gills. This step is essential to achieve delicious meat. You can ask the fishmonger to clean it for you, saving you time.

2. Seasoning: Start by seasoning the fish with salt, pepper, and thyme. These spices will highlight the natural flavor of the zander.

3. Flour mixture: Cornmeal provides a crunchy texture, while flour helps form an even crust. Make sure the mixture is well blended so that each piece of fish is evenly coated.

4. Oil temperature: Oil that is too cold will lead to ineffective frying. Check the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of batter – if it bubbles, it's ready!

5. Garnishes: Use slices of orange and peppers to add a touch of color and freshness. Parsley will not only enhance the appearance but also add a fresh taste to the dish.

Step-by-step guide

1. Prepare the fish: Clean the zander of scales and gills, gut it, and wash it well under cold running water. Dry it with a paper towel to remove excess water.

2. Season: Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and a little paprika on the fish, ensuring that each side is well covered.

3. Prepare the mixture: In a deep plate, combine cornmeal, flour, sweet paprika, hot paprika, and thyme. Mix well for an even distribution of spices.

4. Heat the oil: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure you have enough oil to cover the fish.

5. Coat the fish: Dip each piece of zander in the flour and cornmeal mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.

6. Fry the fish: Carefully place the fish in the pan, 2-3 pieces at a time, depending on the size of the pan. Fry each piece for about 10 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

7. Prepare the garlic sauce: While the fish is frying, crush the garlic cloves and mix them with vinegar, salt, pepper, a little chopped greenery, and 2 tablespoons of water. Adjust the taste to your preference.

8. Remove the fish: Once the fish is fried, remove it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

9. Serve: Drizzle the fish with lemon juice, add garlic sauce, and garnish with slices of orange, parsley, and peppers. Serve hot alongside a fresh salad or a side of vegetables.

Delicious combinations

This fried zander with garlic pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a light beer that will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish. Additionally, a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or mashed potatoes would be ideal sides.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of fish? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using other types of fish, such as carp or catfish, but cooking times may vary.

2. How can I make the fish spicier? Add more hot paprika or you can include chili flakes in the garlic sauce.

3. What can I do with the leftovers? If you have leftover fish, you can use it in salads or sandwiches the next day.

Nutritional benefits

Zander is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Additionally, garlic has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, making it a beneficial ingredient for the immune system.

Possible variations

For a healthier option, you can bake the fish instead of frying it. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake in the oven at 180°C for 25-30 minutes. You can also add vegetables to the oven to create a complete meal.

I hope this fried zander with garlic recipe brings you joy and flavor in the kitchen. Cooking is an art that brings people together, and every meal is an opportunity to celebrate. So, enjoy your meal!