The brine of bream

Grilled Bream Brine: A Refreshing Delicacy for Flavor-Packed Summers

If you're looking for a summer recipe that will cool you down and impress your barbecue guests, today's dish is perfect! Grilled bream brine is not only a simple recipe but also a true feast of flavors, combining the delicate taste of fish with the richness of fresh ingredients. This recipe can transform any summer meal into a memorable moment.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 1 - 1.5 kg fresh bream
- 100 ml tomato juice with peppers (preferably homemade)
- 7-8 cloves of garlic
- Coarse salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- 1 hot pepper
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon of dried vegetables
- 1.5 l water

Preparing the Fish
1. Cleaning and Preparing the Fish:
Start by cleaning the bream of intestines and scales. It is essential to remove all impurities to achieve a clean and fresh taste. Score the fish on the top where the flesh is thicker to allow the spices to penetrate better. Rinse it well under cold running water and let it drain.

2. Salting:
Sprinkle a pinch of coarse salt on the fish and let it sit for a few minutes. If you have time, you can salt it the night before, which will intensify the flavor and add depth to the dish.

3. The Grill:
Preheat the charcoal grill until it reaches an optimal temperature. Place the bream on the grill and cook it on both sides until the flesh becomes tender and easily separates from the bones. It is important not to leave it on the grill too long, as the fish can become dry.

4. Removing the Burn:
After cooking, use the back of a knife to gently scrape off any burn from the fish. This will add a layer of texture and an appetizing appearance.

Preparing the Brine
1. Boiling the Ingredients:
In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the tomato juice with peppers, salt, pepper, and dried vegetables. These ingredients will provide a flavorful base for the brine.

2. Adding Flavor:
After a few boils, add the sliced garlic, thyme, and the hot pepper cut into quarters. These flavors will transform the brine into a fragrant and spicy sauce.

3. Finalizing the Brine:
Turn off the heat and add the finely chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Let the brine cool slightly before pouring it hot over the fish.

Serving
After pouring the warm brine over the bream, cover everything with a lid for a few minutes so that the flavors meld perfectly. This dish is wonderful served with warm polenta, which will absorb the delicious flavors of the brine.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the Fish: Make sure the bream is fresh. You can check the eyes, which should be clear and bright, and the gills, which should be a vibrant red.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of fish, such as carp or catfish, to create a new version of the recipe.
- Enhancements: If you like a spicier taste, you can add more hot pepper or even a splash of chili sauce.

Nutritional Benefits
Bream is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Additionally, garlic has antibacterial properties and can help boost the immune system. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritionally beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, but make sure it is of good quality and completely thawed before preparation.
- What other side dishes pair well? Besides polenta, you can serve grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a crunchy contrast.

Serving Suggestions
Along with the dish, a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer are excellent options to complement the flavors of the fish. Additionally, a tomato salad with onion and olive oil will add a fresh note and balance the intense flavors of the dish.

A Personal Note
This recipe reminds me of summers spent around the grill with family and friends. It is a wonderful way to bring people together, share stories, and enjoy a delicious meal. So this summer, don't hesitate to prepare the bream brine and create unforgettable memories!

Enjoy your meal!