Sleep in parchment

Catfish en papillote: A healthy delicacy steamed in a surprise package

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

I propose a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring the healthy benefits of steaming to your plate. Catfish en papillote is an elegant and easy-to-make method that retains all the delicious juices of the fish and the flavors of the spices. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

A bit of history: The term "en papillote" comes from French and translates to "in paper." This culinary technique has been used for centuries to steam food, preserving its flavor and moisture. By using parchment paper or aluminum foil, the ingredients transform into a fragrant package, resulting in a healthy and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh catfish, cut into pieces
- 1 lime (or lemon, if you prefer a more sour taste)
- 6 sprigs of wild thyme (or regular thyme)
- 3 green garlic stalks
- 3 small chili peppers (optional, depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 200 g grated cheese or mozzarella
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Himalayan salt, to taste
- 1 can of sweet corn (for garnish)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the catfish pieces under cold running water, then pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a better texture when cooking.

2. Chopping the flavors: Wash the green garlic and slice it thinly. Also, wash the thyme and chili peppers. If you are not a fan of spicy foods, you can omit the chili peppers or adjust them to your liking.

3. Assembling the package: Take a piece of parchment paper and place the catfish pieces in the center. Sprinkle with Himalayan salt, drizzle with sesame oil and lime juice for a fresh taste. Add the ginger powder and smoked paprika for an extra touch of flavor.

4. Adding the vegetables: Place the sliced green garlic, chili peppers, and thyme on top of the fish. This mix will infuse the catfish with delicious flavors during baking.

5. Finalizing the package: Sprinkle the grated cheese or mozzarella on top of the ingredients. Fold the parchment paper into a sealed package, ensuring that no air remains inside. If necessary, you can secure the package with toothpicks to prevent it from opening during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the catfish package on a tray and bake for about 45 minutes. If using a Philips Multicooker, set it according to the steaming instructions.

7. Serving: When the baking time is up, remove the package from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully open the package (watch out for steam!) and enjoy the aromas that will be released. You can serve the catfish directly from the paper, alongside sweet corn for a colorful and tasty garnish.

Serving suggestions: For an extra touch of freshness, add lime or lemon slices when serving. A green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar will complement this dish wonderfully.

Nutritional benefits: Catfish is a good source of quality protein, containing omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health. Sesame oil adds healthy fats, and the vegetables in the recipe provide essential vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of fish? Absolutely! You can substitute catfish with cod, perch, or even salmon fillets.
2. What side dishes can I use? Besides sweet corn, you can add basmati rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance? It is recommended to prepare catfish fresh to enjoy the best flavors, but you can prep the ingredients a day ahead and assemble them before cooking.

Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can add slices of tomato or zucchini for an extra touch of freshness. Additionally, a splash of soy sauce or a honey and mustard marinade can transform this recipe into a dish with a completely different taste.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to start cooking! Catfish en papillote will surely delight you and bring a touch of refinement to your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!