Trout with polenta

Trout with Polenta - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Welcome to the world of authentic flavors and tastes! Today, I will guide you through the preparation of a savory baked trout recipe, accompanied by creamy polenta and garlic sauce. This classic combination is not only delicious but also very easy to make, perfect for a comforting dinner or a festive meal.

Trout, a freshwater fish, has a fine and succulent flesh, and baking it preserves all the flavors intact. The history of this dish is long, with deep roots in culinary traditions, often associated with festive meals and family gatherings.

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 gutted trout (approximately 300-400 g each, fresh)
- 4 slices of butter (approximately 100 g)
- 4 slices of lemon
- 200 g tomatoes in sauce (or fresh tomatoes, if you prefer)
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary)
- Fish seasoning (you can use a mix of salt, pepper, and granulated garlic)
- 100 ml dry white wine (optional, but recommended for a richer taste)

For the polenta:

- 200 g cornmeal
- 800 ml water
- A pinch of salt

For the garlic sauce:

- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 100 ml water
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional)
- Salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the trout: Start by washing the trout well under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are cleaned of any impurities. After washing, dry them with a paper towel. This will help the spices adhere better to the flesh.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle a mixture of fish seasoning, salt, and pepper inside and outside the trout. Add the rosemary both inside and outside. The rosemary will give a special flavor to the dish.

3. Stuffing the trout: Place a slice of butter, a slice of lemon, and a few tomatoes in sauce inside each trout. These ingredients will add intense flavor and keep the flesh juicy during baking.

4. Wrapping: Place the trout on a piece of aluminum foil. Add a slice of butter and a slice of lemon on top, then wrap the foil tightly to create a sealed package, preventing the juices from leaking during baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the trout package in the oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes. If you want a crispier trout, open the foil package 10 minutes before the end and let it brown nicely in the oven.

6. Preparing the polenta: In a pot, bring the water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the cornmeal in a steady stream, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent lumps. Cook the polenta over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes creamy (about 15-20 minutes).

7. Preparing the garlic sauce: In a mortar or with a utensil, crush the garlic cloves, adding a little salt to form a paste. Gradually add water, mixing until you achieve the desired consistency. You can add olive oil for a richer taste.

8. Serving: Place the polenta on a plate, add the trout on top, and pour the garlic sauce alongside. You can garnish with fresh lemon slices or a few sprigs of rosemary for an elegant appearance.

Serving suggestions: This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the fish. You can also add a fresh green salad for a crunchy contrast.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen trout? Yes, but make sure it is well-thawed and drained before preparing it.
- What other herbs can I use? Instead of rosemary, you can try dill or thyme for a different note.
- How can I adapt this recipe for a larger group? You can multiply the ingredients proportionally, but ensure that the trout can be cooked evenly in the oven.

Nutritional benefits: Trout is an excellent source of quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins, making it a healthy food that benefits the heart. Polenta, being rich in carbohydrates and fiber, provides sustained energy.

Possible variations: You can experiment by adding fresh vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, inside the trout for extra nutrients and flavor. Also, if you want a spicier version, you can add hot pepper to the garlic sauce.

This trout with polenta recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a perfect choice for a meal full of flavors and tradition. So, don't hesitate to try it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!