Oriental carp

Delicious Baked Carp with Vegetables Recipe

Who doesn't appreciate fresh fish, cooked with love and accompanied by aromatic vegetables? Today, I will share with you a simple and delicious recipe for baked carp with vegetables that will bring both flavor and a touch of joy to every meal. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and it is easy to adapt based on the ingredients available in your pantry.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients

- 6 pieces of carp (or as many as fit in your baking tray)
- 3 large onions
- 150 g carrots (ideally as small as possible for even cooking)
- 100 g celery
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 potatoes
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 1 jar of 800 g with tomatoes in tomato juice
- 1 jar of canned mushrooms
- 2 heads of garlic
- 150 ml white wine
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, oil (for frying)
- Flour (for dusting the fish)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the fish
Start by cleaning the carp if it is not already prepared. It should be fresh, and its flesh should be firm. Cut the carp into appropriately sized pieces for even cooking. Season each piece with salt and lightly dust them with flour to create a light crust when frying. This step will help retain the moisture in the fish and achieve a delicious taste.

2. Frying the fish
Heat a large skillet with oil. When the oil is hot, add the carp pieces. Fry them on each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden, but do not let them brown too much. The goal is to give them a nice texture while keeping them juicy. After frying, place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

3. Preparing the vegetables
Chop the onion into scales, and slice the carrots and celery into rounds or cubes. In the same skillet where you fried the fish, add a little oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots and celery and continue to sauté for 5-7 minutes. These vegetables will add fantastic flavor to the dish.

4. Adding flavors
Cut the bell pepper into strips and add it to the skillet. Also, add the sliced garlic. Sauté everything together for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the drained mushrooms, followed by the tomato juice. Adjust the taste with salt and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. These vegetables will create a flavorful bed for the fish to rest on in the oven.

5. Preparing the potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them into rounds. You can fry them in a skillet with oil or bake them in the oven for a healthier option. If you choose to fry them, add them to the hot oil and cook until golden and crispy.

6. Assembling the dish
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a baking tray, layer the sautéed vegetables, followed by the carp pieces. Pour the white wine over the fish and vegetables, then cover everything with slices of fresh tomatoes. This step will add moisture and flavor to the dish, giving it an unmistakable taste.

7. Baking
Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 25 minutes. This time will allow the fish to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

8. Serving
After removing the dish from the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of freshness. Serve it alongside fried or baked potatoes and, of course, a portion of warm polenta and a glass of white wine. These combinations will turn the meal into a true feast of flavors.

Practical tips

- If you prefer a leaner fish, you can opt for trout or sea bream.
- Replace canned mushrooms with fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- Depending on your preferences, you can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or even broccoli.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it properly and remove excess water before frying.

2. How can I vary the recipe?
Experiment with different types of fish or seasonal vegetables. You can also add spices like paprika or herbs to enhance the flavor.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the fish and use only vegetables, adding tofu or seitan for a source of protein.

Nutritional benefits

Carp is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals, making this dish a healthy and balanced choice.

With all this information, all that’s left is for you to get cooking! Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this baked carp with vegetables recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!