Fried fish with polenta and garlic sauce

Fried fish with polenta and garlic sauce: a delicious recipe that reminds us of the simple and authentic flavors of childhood. This dish is not only a wonderful choice for a weekend meal but also an excellent way to bring traditional flavors to your table in a modern and flavorful style.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of fish (cod or hake) - the ideal choice for a delicate texture and refined taste
- 200 g of cornmeal - for a crispy and golden crust
- Salt - to taste
- 4 cloves of garlic - for an extra flavor
- 200 ml of tomato juice - fresh or canned
- 500 g of polenta (optional) - to complement the dish

Necessary utensils:
- A deep frying pan
- A bowl for marinating the fish
- A cutting board
- A garlic press or knife
- A spatula

Step by step:

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning the fish, if it hasn't been cleaned already. Rinse it well under cold running water, making sure to remove all impurities. Then, cut it into pieces about 3-4 cm. These will fry evenly and be easy to serve.

2. Salting the fish: Place the fish pieces in a bowl and sprinkle salt over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them sit for 10 minutes to marinate and intensify the flavors.

3. Preparing the cornmeal: In another bowl, place the cornmeal. This will create a delicious and crispy crust when the fish is fried. You can add a little salt to the cornmeal for better flavor.

4. Heating the oil: In the deep frying pan, pour enough oil to cover the bottom and place it over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. To check if the oil is ready, you can throw a small piece of flour into it; if it sizzles, it’s the right time.

5. Frying the fish: Dipping each piece of fish in the cornmeal, make sure they are evenly coated. Carefully place them in the pan, leaving enough space between them to avoid sticking. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden and crispy. Don’t rush; slow frying is the key to a perfect crust!

6. Preparing the garlic sauce: While the fish is frying, you can prepare the garlic sauce. Crush the 4 cloves of garlic and mix them with the tomato juice. Add a pinch of salt and mix well. This sauce will give an intense and fresh taste to the fish.

7. Preparing the polenta: If you want to serve polenta alongside, bring salted water to a boil in a pot. When the water is boiling, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the polenta for 10-15 minutes until it becomes creamy and thick.

8. Serving: Once the fish is fried, remove it onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve it warm, alongside polenta and garlic sauce. Garnishing the plate with a few slices of lemon can add a fresh touch!

Chef's tip:
For an extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of sweet paprika to the cornmeal. This will give the fish a beautiful color and a hint of taste. Also, using fresh fish is essential for a tasty dish.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can try adding fresh herbs to the garlic sauce, such as parsley or dill. These will give a more vibrant look and a delicious taste.

Ideal combinations:
This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a cold blonde beer. A fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers can complete the meal, bringing a note of freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
Fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart and brain health. Polenta, on the other hand, is an energy-rich food, providing complex carbohydrates that help us maintain energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, you can try any type of white fish, such as trout or tilapia.
- How can I store polenta for later? Polenta stores well in the fridge, but it’s best when consumed fresh. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a little water.
- What can I do with leftover fish? You can make a delicious sandwich with fried fish, adding garlic sauce and fresh vegetables.

Now that you know how to prepare this simple yet delicious dish, it’s time to get cooking! Whether it’s a quick dinner or a relaxing weekend lunch, fried fish with polenta and garlic sauce is the perfect choice. Enjoy your meal!