Pangasius fillet with polenta

Pangasius fillet with polenta and garlic sauce

The culinary journey we propose today revolves around a simple yet delicious dish: pangasius fillet with polenta, accompanied by a garlic sauce. This recipe combines tradition with the fresh taste of fish, offering a comforting meal, perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

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

Ingredients:
- 3-4 pieces of pangasius fillet (approximately 500 g)
- Flour (approximately 100 g)
- Breadcrumbs (approximately 100 g)
- 3 eggs
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)
- Salt (to taste)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 250 g cornmeal
- 1 liter of water

Preparing the pangasius fillets

1. During the initial preparations, wash the pangasius fillets under cold running water and dry them with an absorbent paper towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

2. On a plate, place the flour, and on another plate, the breadcrumbs. This trick helps the fish develop a delicious crust that will turn golden and crispy during frying.

3. In a bowl, beat the 3 eggs with a pinch of salt. The eggs will help the breadcrumbs adhere better to the fillets.

4. Portion the pangasius fillets into pieces of your desired size. These can be larger or smaller, depending on preferences, but keep a uniform size to ensure even cooking.

5. Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium to high heat. It’s important for the oil to be well-heated before adding the fish to avoid excessive oil absorption.

6. Dip each piece of fish in flour, then in beaten egg, and finally in breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well coated.

7. Place the pangasius fillets in the hot oil. Let them fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.

8. When the fillets are ready, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Preparing the polenta

1. In a pot, add 1 liter of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.

2. When the water is boiling, add a handful of cornmeal to avoid lumps. Let it boil for a few minutes.

3. Gradually add the cornmeal while continuously stirring with a whisk or a wooden spoon. This step is crucial for achieving smooth and creamy polenta.

4. Continue stirring and let it boil for about 15-20 minutes until the polenta becomes thick. At the end, add 1 tablespoon of oil for a richer taste.

5. Turn the polenta onto a plate or cutting board and let it cool slightly before cutting it into slices.

Preparing the garlic sauce

1. Peel the garlic cloves and crush them well with a pinch of salt. Garlic is a magical ingredient that will give the dish an intense and aromatic flavor.

2. Once the garlic is well crushed, add 2 tablespoons of oil and mix well until the composition becomes homogeneous, resembling mayonnaise. This garlic paste will perfectly complement the taste of the fish and polenta.

Serving

Now that all the elements of the dish are ready, it’s time to assemble the plate! Place a few slices of polenta on a plate, add the pangasius fillets on top, and garnish with the garlic sauce. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh parsley for a more appealing look.

Customized version

If you want to add a twist to the recipe, try using spices like paprika or herbs (oregano or basil) in the breadcrumbs. These will bring an extra flavor and transform the dish into a unique culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits

Pangasius fillet is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice. Polenta, on the other hand, is rich in carbohydrates, providing quick and lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted with other types of fish, such as cod or salmon fillet.

2. How can I make the polenta creamier?
Adding a splash of milk or cheese to the polenta at the end can make the texture creamier.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Sure! Replace the fish with vegetable patties or breaded mushrooms, and the polenta will remain a perfect accompaniment.

4. What can this dish be paired with?
This delicacy can be enjoyed alongside a glass of dry white wine or a blonde beer, and as a salad, a green salad with tomatoes and onions will perfectly complement the meal.

Enjoy every bite of this dish, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia to your culinary memories. Bon appétit!