Fried fish with polenta, tomato paste, and caper sauce

Fried Fish with Polenta and Caper Sauce: A Classic Recipe with a Twist

Who doesn't love a delicious meal that reminds us of our grandmothers? This recipe for fried fish with polenta and caper sauce is not only a delicacy but also a journey into culinary tradition, bringing a touch of nostalgia and comfort. Whether you're a passionate foodie or a beginner in cooking, this recipe is simple and quick, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

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

Ingredients:
- 450 g of fresh carp (or other white fish)
- 40 g of flour
- 300 g of cornmeal
- Salt, to taste
- 100 g of oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 50 g of tomato paste
- 150 g of butter
- 100 g of capers (fresh or canned)
- 100 ml of white wine
- 50 ml of fresh lemon juice
- 20 g of garlic powder
- 20 g of fresh herbs (parsley or dill, to taste)

Step by step in preparing the recipe:

Step 1: Preparing the fish
Start by washing the fish under a stream of cold water. Scale and gut it, making sure to remove the intestines. Don’t forget to remove the gills and the bitter bone for a more pleasant taste. Once done, wash it again and pat it dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step to achieve crispy fried fish.

Step 2: Preparing the flour mixture
In a bowl, combine the flour with the cornmeal, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will give the fish a delicious and flavorful crust. Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Frying the fish
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Dredge each piece of fish in the flour and cornmeal mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Place the fish in the skillet and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Once the fish is ready, remove it onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Preparing the polenta
In a pot, bring about 1 liter of salted water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add a little butter for richer flavor. If you want to color the polenta, you can add tomato paste for a reddish hue, spinach for a green shade, or beetroot for a deep color. Stir well until the polenta becomes thick. Once ready, pour it onto a platter and let it cool slightly before cutting it into cubes or desired shapes.

Step 5: Preparing the caper sauce
For the sauce, melt the butter in a bowl over a double boiler. Gradually add the lemon juice and white wine, stirring continuously. Season with salt and pepper, and finally, add the capers. This sauce will bring a note of freshness and a wonderful contrast to the fried fish. I recommend adding it over the fish when serving to keep the flavors intact.

Serving suggestions
Serve the fried fish on a platter alongside the polenta, and the caper sauce can be poured on top or served separately. A side of fresh green salad or a tomato and onion salad will perfectly complement this dish.

Possible variations
You can experiment with different types of fish, such as trout or perch, and you can replace the caper sauce with a dill sauce or even a garlic yogurt sauce for a refreshing note. Also, for a bit of spice, add some chili flakes to the sauce.

Nutritional benefits
Fish is an excellent source of quality protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. Polenta, being rich in complex carbohydrates, provides long-lasting energy, while capers are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess water.

2. How can I store polenta?
Polenta can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it tastes best fresh.

3. What else can I add to the sauce?
You can experiment with herbs like basil or chives to add extra flavor.

This recipe for fried fish with polenta and caper sauce is not just a meal, but also a culinary experience that brings together tradition and creativity. Whether you choose to prepare it for a family dinner or to impress guests, it will surely be a success. Enjoy your meal!