Grilled carp with yogurt and garlic sauce

Grilled carp with yogurt and garlic sauce: a delicious, simple, and flavorful recipe that combines tradition and authentic taste. Discover how to prepare this dish in just a few simple steps and enjoy a meal that will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 fresh carp (about 2 kg)
- 2 cups of natural yogurt
- 50 ml olive oil
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of coarse salt
- a few drops of vinegar

Step 1: Preparing the carp
Start by washing the carp under a stream of cold water, ensuring that you remove all impurities. It is important for the fish to be fresh and of good quality, so when choosing the carp, check that the eyes are clear and the gills are red.

After washing, use a generous amount of coarse salt to rub the carp well. This step will not only add flavor but will also help keep the fish juicy during cooking. Let it absorb the salt for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the grill
Meanwhile, prepare the grill. Make sure it is well heated before adding the carp. An excellent option is to use a charcoal grill, which will add a pleasant smoky flavor that you cannot achieve with a gas grill. If you do not have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stove.

Once the grill is hot, place the carp on the grill with the skin side down. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes without moving it. This will help the skin become crispy and detach more easily.

Step 3: Flipping the carp
After the skin is well browned, flip the carp using a large spatula or tongs. It is important to handle it gently to avoid breaking it. Continue cooking the fish on the other side for another 5-7 minutes, until the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily from the bones.

Step 4: Preparing the yogurt and garlic sauce
While the carp is grilling, you can prepare the delicious yogurt and garlic sauce. Start by peeling the garlic and crushing it very well until it becomes a fine paste. A trick to achieve a creamy texture is to use a mortar or a food processor.

Add the crushed garlic to a bowl and mash it with a wooden spoon until it becomes creamy. Now, add a few drops of vinegar and the olive oil, mixing well to combine the flavors. Finally, incorporate the natural yogurt, stirring until you achieve a smooth consistency. This sauce is not only delicious but also easy to digest, offering a perfect balance between the intense flavors of the fish and the freshness of the yogurt.

Step 5: Serving
Once the carp is ready, remove it from the grill and let it rest covered for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring that the fish remains juicy.

Serve the carp alongside the yogurt and garlic sauce, and don't forget a side of warm polenta. This adds a rustic flavor and wonderful texture to your dish. An excellent option would be to add a few slices of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment, you can add herbs such as dill or parsley to the sauce, which pair wonderfully with fish.
- Make sure the carp is fully cooked; the flesh should be opaque and easily flake from the bones.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a bit of crushed chili pepper to the yogurt sauce.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of grilled carp with yogurt and garlic sauce contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the portion size and the amount of oil used. Carp is an excellent source of quality protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins such as B12. Yogurt adds a boost of probiotics, beneficial for gut flora.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can also use other types of fish, such as sea bream or salmon. Cooking times may vary, so make sure to check the texture of the flesh.

2. How can I store leftover carp?
Cooked carp can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or on the grill, but make sure not to leave it too long to avoid drying out.

3. What other sides pair well?
Besides polenta, you can serve the carp with grilled vegetables or fresh salads, which provide a pleasant contrast.

A personal note
This grilled carp recipe with yogurt and garlic sauce reminds me of the meals spent with family, where laughter intertwined with the delicious aromas of lovingly prepared dishes. It is a dish that brings people together, perfect for summer days spent outdoors.

Try this simple and tasty recipe, and enjoy a delicious meal that combines the naturalness of the ingredients with culinary tradition. Enjoy your meal!