Fried perch with a side of stewed tomatoes and fried potatoes - Arabic recipe

Fried bass with a side of stewed tomatoes and French fries - A delicious Arabic recipe

Who doesn't love a beautifully fried fish dish, accompanied by colorful and aromatic sides? Fried bass with stewed tomatoes and French fries is a recipe that combines culinary tradition with Mediterranean flavors, bringing a feast of aromas and textures to the table. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Let’s discover together how to make it!

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

Ingredients:

For the fish:
- 1 kg fresh bass
- Fish spices (cloves, coriander, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, bay leaves, pepper)
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt to taste
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 cup olive oil

For the stewed tomatoes:
- 6 medium-sized tomatoes
- 2 peppers of different colors (green, orange)
- 1 small onion
- 1 teaspoon Vegeta (or other preferred seasoning)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

For the French fries:
- 3 large potatoes
- Lebanese spices for potatoes (pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, garlic powder)
- 1/2 cup corn oil
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt

Preparing the fish:

1. Start by cleaning the bass of scales and internal organs, washing it well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities and ensure a clean taste.

2. Cut the bass into larger slices for even frying and to maintain juiciness. Place the slices in a tray and sprinkle with salt and fish spices.

3. Drizzle with lemon juice, which will not only add a fresh taste but also help the spices penetrate. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and let the fish marinate for 3-4 hours in the refrigerator. This resting time is crucial for allowing the flavors to infuse.

Preparing the stewed tomatoes:

1. Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. Blanch them for a few minutes in boiling water, then easily peel them. Cut them into larger pieces. This process helps to intensify the flavor of the tomatoes, giving them a better texture.

2. Chop the onion and pepper into small cubes. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and the aromas are released.

3. Add the chopped tomatoes, Vegeta, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes turn into a delicious and aromatic sauce.

Preparing the French fries:

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into long strips, resembling classic French fries. Rinse them well and dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is important for achieving crispy fries.

2. Season them with salt and Lebanese spices. These spices will give an exotic touch to the fries, turning them into a delicious side dish.

3. In a deep skillet, heat the corn oil and olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the potatoes and fry until golden and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Assembling the plate:

1. On a large plate, arrange the fried bass slices. You can fry them in a skillet with a little oil until golden and crispy on both sides, or bake them in the oven for a healthier option.

2. Meanwhile, season the stewed tomatoes and place them alongside the fish. Add the French fries next to them, and for an extra freshness, you can serve a mixed salad with sesame dressing or pickles, which will bring a pleasant contrast to the intense flavors of the dish.

3. Don’t forget to accompany this dish with a sliced lemon, to give it a final touch of freshness when serving.

Nutritional benefits:

Fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. Tomatoes provide a high amount of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while potatoes are a source of healthy carbohydrates that provide energy. Together, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Possible variations:

If you want to experiment, you can add fresh herbs to the tomato sauce, such as basil or parsley. You can also use different types of fish, such as dorado or salmon, depending on your preferences.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, it is possible, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking to maintain its texture.

2. How can I make the tomato sauce spicier?
Add a few chili flakes or a bit of chili sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

3. Can I bake the potatoes instead of frying them?
Yes, this is a healthy option. Toss them with olive oil and spices, then bake at 200°C until golden.

4. What drinks do you recommend with this dish?
A dry white wine or freshly made lemonade are excellent choices that perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Enjoy every bite of this fried bass with a side of stewed tomatoes and French fries! Every meal is an opportunity to explore and share special moments with loved ones. Bon appétit!