Guinea fowl in tomato sauce

Recipe for Gobies in Tomato Sauce

If you are looking for a savory and comforting dish, gobies in tomato sauce are the perfect choice. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors, bringing to the table a rich taste and a delicious texture, ideal to be enjoyed alongside a serving of polenta. Let’s be carried away by the aromas of this recipe, which we will explore step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Your ingredients:
- 1 kg gobies (fresh fish, cleaned and washed)
- 1 large onion
- 1 small head of garlic
- 1 cup of flour
- Oil for frying (approximately 200 ml)
- 1 jar of tomatoes (approximately 400-500 g, preferably tomatoes preserved in their own juice)
- 1 sprig of fresh sage
- 100 ml white wine (optional, but recommended for a more complex flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Before we start, let’s make sure we have all the ingredients prepared. Choose fresh fish, as gobies are tastier when fresh. The jarred tomatoes should be of good quality, and the white wine will add an extra layer of flavor to the sauce.

Step 1: Preparing the gobies
Start by cleaning and washing the gobies well. Once cleaned, sprinkle salt over their entire surface. This will not only enhance the flavor of the fish but also help to remove moisture. Then, coat each goby in flour, ensuring they are well covered. The flour will create a light crust during frying, giving them a crispy texture.

Step 2: Frying the fish
In a deep skillet, add the oil and heat it well. When the oil is hot, add the gobies one by one, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry until they turn golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Once done, remove them to paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Preparing the tomato sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add 2 tablespoons of the oil you used to fry the fish. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, stirring constantly to avoid burning, as garlic cooks quickly.

When the onion and garlic are ready, add the jarred tomatoes, mixing well. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add the white wine and a glass of water, continuing to cook. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
After the sauce has simmered and thickened slightly, transfer everything to a baking dish. Place the fried gobies in the sauce, making sure to cover them evenly. Add the sprig of sage on top for extra flavor. Now, it’s time to put the dish in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 30 minutes. This process will help the fish absorb the flavors of the sauce and make the meat more tender.

Step 5: Serving
After the gobies have been in the oven, remove the dish and let it cool slightly. It’s best served alongside a portion of warm polenta. The polenta will perfectly complement the rich taste of the tomato sauce and provide a contrasting texture. You can add a few fresh sage leaves for an attractive appearance.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to enrich the sauce, you can add black olives or capers, giving it a Mediterranean touch.
- Gobies are delicious cold, so you can also serve them as a cold salad, adding some fresh vegetables.
- The dish can be paired with a dry white wine that will complement the flavors of the fish and sauce.

Nutritional benefits:
Gobies are an excellent source of lean protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Tomatoes are full of antioxidants, especially lycopene, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of fish instead of gobies?
Yes, you can use white fish fillets like cod or perch. Cook them the same way as gobies for the best results.
2. What else can I add to the sauce?
You can experiment with herbs like basil or oregano, which pair perfectly with tomatoes.
3. Can I make the recipe without alcohol?
Sure! You can omit the wine and add more water or fish stock to maintain the sauce's moisture.

This recipe for gobies in tomato sauce is not just a delicious meal but also a way to enjoy moments spent with loved ones. Whether you serve it at a special dinner or simply to treat yourself, it’s a dish that will bring smiles to your face. Bon appétit!