Grilled mackerel with fried polenta and flavored potatoes

Grilled Mackerel with Fried Polenta and Savory Potatoes: A Delicacy for Fish Lovers

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Have you ever thought about how wonderful it can be to prepare fresh fish, grilled, accompanied by fried polenta and savory potatoes? This recipe is not only simple and quick but also offers an explosion of flavors that will delight you. Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, grilled mackerel is an excellent choice. Let's see together how you can achieve a perfect result!

Ingredients

- 3 mackerel (or other preferred fish)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 liter water
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 500 g small potatoes with skin
- Thyme (to taste)
- Butter (for drizzling)

A Bit of History

Polenta, a traditional dish, has its origins in culinary folklore, being a staple food in many cultures. It is versatile and can be adapted to accompany a variety of dishes, but when paired with grilled fish, it becomes a true delicacy. Fish, especially mackerel, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for health, contributing to the proper functioning of the heart and brain.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Fish

- Thawing: If using frozen fish, allow it to thaw naturally in the refrigerator to preserve its texture and flavor.
- Cleaning: Clean the fish well, rinse under cold running water, and pat dry with a paper towel. This will help the spices absorb better.
- Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the fish, letting them sit for a bit to infuse with the flavors.

2. Preparing the Polenta

- Boiling the water: In a pot, bring 1 liter of water with a pinch of salt to a boil.
- Adding the cornmeal: When the water boils, gradually add the cornmeal while continuously stirring with a whisk. This step is crucial to avoid lumps.
- Cooking the polenta: Let the polenta cook, stirring occasionally, until it pulls away from the sides of the pot. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
- Cooling: Pour the polenta into a heat-resistant mold and let it cool completely. A firmer polenta will be easier to portion.

3. Preparing the Potatoes

- Washing: Wash the potatoes well to remove any impurities.
- Boiling: Cut them into suitable strips and steam or boil them for a few minutes, being careful not to overcook. The potatoes should remain semi-cooked.
- Tempering: After boiling, drain them and drizzle with butter, allowing them to cool slightly.

4. Cooking the Fish and Polenta

- Preheating the grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Cooking the fish: Place the fish on the grill, allowing them to brown well on one side, then carefully turn them. The fish cooks quickly, so do not leave it for more than 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Frying the polenta: Cut the polenta into suitable slices and season with salt, paprika, garlic powder, and a drizzle of oil. Place the slices on the grill, frying them until they develop a golden and appetizing crust.

5. Finalizing the Dish

- Cooking the potatoes: Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and thyme, then fry them on the grill over high heat until they become crispy.
- Serving: Arrange the fish on a platter, alongside the slices of fried polenta and savory potatoes. You can garnish the plate with fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of color.

Serving Suggestions

For an even more delicious meal, you can add a fresh vegetable salad or a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill. These will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the fish and polenta. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer will make the culinary experience unforgettable.

Useful Tips

- Fish Variations: If you don't have mackerel, you can use any fatty fish, such as salmon or sardines.
- Leftover Polenta: If you have leftover polenta from the previous day, you can successfully use it. It can even be tastier after cooling and frying.
- Enhancements: You can experiment with different spices for the potatoes, such as smoked paprika or rosemary for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional Information

- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
- Nutritional benefits: Fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while polenta provides complex carbohydrates, and potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of fish? Of course! You can experiment with different types of fish, each having its own flavors.
- What other side dishes go well with this dish? A salad of raw vegetables or steamed vegetables are excellent options.
- How can I tell when the fish is cooked? The fish is cooked when the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

I wish you much success in cooking and hope you enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Taste your creation and let your senses revel in the delicious flavors! Grilled mackerel, fried polenta, and savory potatoes are a wonderful, easy-to-prepare, and absolutely tasty choice. Enjoy your meal!