Stuffed with shrimp

Stuffed Fish with Shrimp - A Refined and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience with this savory shrimp-stuffed fish recipe. This dish not only impresses with its presentation but also offers a blend of flavors that come together perfectly to create a special meal. Whether you want to prepare a special dinner for your loved ones or simply indulge yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Recipe History
Fish dishes have a long history, being part of the traditional cuisines of many cultures. Stuffing fish is a technique that has been used for centuries, allowing the fish to cook evenly while the filling enhances its flavor. The shrimp added to this recipe is an excellent choice, with a delicate texture and sweet taste that perfectly complements the fish's flavor.

Ingredients
- 1 whole fish (approx. 1.2 kg)
- 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 50 g butter
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
- 1 teaspoon chili (or to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon (preferably organic)
- 1 whole lemon, cut in half
- 250 g peeled shrimp
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 100 ml white wine
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Necessary Utensils
- Frying pan
- Oven-safe dish
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Spatula
- Grater for lemon zest

Step by Step to a Perfect Stuffed Fish

1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. This step is essential to ensure even and perfect cooking of the fish.

2. Prepare the fish
Wash the fish well under cold running water. Pat it dry with a paper towel, then make a cut on one side of the fish, starting from the head and going to the tail. Make sure the cut is deep enough to form a pocket but not so deep that you cut all the way through.

3. Base of onions
Place the chopped onions at the bottom of the oven-safe dish. This will add moisture as the fish cooks, contributing to a juicy final result.

4. Season the fish
Place the fish on top of the onions in the dish. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Now is the time to give the fish that flavor boost that will make all the difference.

5. Prepare the filling
In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and pour it into a bowl. Let it cool for 5 minutes. When it has reached the right temperature, add a pinch of salt and pepper, the crushed garlic, chili, and lemon zest. Mix well.

6. Add the shrimp
Add the shrimp to the butter and spice mixture. Ensure that each shrimp is evenly coated with the delicious flavors. This is the key to a rich and full taste.

7. Stuff the fish
Fill the pocket of the fish with this mixture. Be careful not to overstuff, as the shrimp will cook and will need a little space.

8. Prepare for baking
Drizzle the fish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 100 ml of white wine. This will not only add flavor but also help retain moisture.

9. Add the lemons
Place the lemon halves around the fish. As it bakes, the lemon juice will add a refreshing note.

10. Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. The fish is done when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily from the bones.

11. Finishing and serving
After removing it from the oven, sprinkle the fish with chopped fresh parsley and squeeze lemon juice over it. Serving this dish is a moment of celebration; you can accompany the fish with a fresh green salad or a side of vegetable rice.

Chef's Tip
For a personalized touch, you can add some chopped green olives to the shrimp filling or experiment with different herbs like basil or dill. This will add depth and complexity to the flavor that will surely impress.

Nutritional Benefits
Fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Shrimp, on the other hand, are low in calories and rich in nutrients, making them a healthy choice for any meal. A serving of this dish contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of fish and the amount of butter used.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can use any white fish, such as sea bream, perch, or even salmon, depending on your preferences.

- Can I substitute shrimp with something else?
Absolutely! You can use smoked salmon or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version.

- What side dish pairs best?
A potato purée or a fresh vegetable salad will perfectly complement this dish.

This shrimp-stuffed fish is a simple yet refined recipe that will turn any meal into a special occasion. With every bite, you will discover an explosion of flavors and textures that will make you return to this recipe again and again. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience!