Fried crucian carp is among the most delectable fish dishes. Its sweet flesh, paired with garlic, is a culinary delight. This fish is readily available and reasonably priced, surpassing any other fried fish when prepared just right.
For best taste, opt for crucian carp of approximately 300-500 grams, striking the perfect balance of size to enhance your culinary delight.
This straightforward recipe ensures you’ll have a flavorful crucian carp on your plate without any fuss. Get ready to enjoy a simple yet delicious meal.
Gently remove the scales and fins from the crucian carp, ensuring to preserve the head for a distinctive presentation on the plate. Make sure to remove the gills as well, as they are bitter and will spoil the taste of the fish. Rinse the fish thoroughly with enough water to eliminate any traces of blood. Afterward, pat them dry with absorbent paper towels.
The next step is crucial for the success of the dish. This particular species has a lot of bones, and it’s essential to make frequent incisions across the spine to facilitate their tenderization during the frying process. We assure you that you won’t feel any bones at all when savoring this recipe.
Season the fish generously with salt and pepper, then set it aside for at least 30 minutes. During this time, you can prepare the garlic sauce and the polenta to complement the dish.
Crush the garlic cloves with salt in a mortar, then gradually add the sunflower oil to create an emulsion resembling mayonnaise.
In a pot with 1 liter of boiling water, add salt to taste. Gradually incorporate the cornmeal, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer over low heat for 5 – 10 minutes until the cornmeal is cooked through.
Combine wheat flour with a hint of cornmeal and a pinch of salt. Coat the fish in this mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly covered on all sides.
Once the oil is hot, gently place the fish in the pan, allowing it to sear beautifully on one side until it achieves a delightful golden crispiness. Carefully flip it to the other side and repeat the process. Once it’s done, carefully remove it, ensuring that any excess oil drains away.
Best enjoyed hot, this combination promises a delightful and memorable dining experience.
Watch our video to discover a delicious fried crucian carp recipe. We’ve prepared the freshly caught fish from the lake, immersed ourselves in the scenic view, and savored this delightful dish. Bon appétit!
Crucian carp is recognized as one of the most flavorful freshwater fish. However, its numerous bones necessitate a unique preparation method. The flesh should be delicately scored along the spine, from tail to head.
In some areas, it crucian carp may be available in fish markets or grocery stores, while in others, it might be less common. Consider checking with local fishmongers or specialty seafood suppliers for availability.
Crucian carp, like any other fish, is best consumed fresh. It can also be preserved by freezing after thorough cleaning and washing or through cold brining. Additionally, it is suitable for smoking.
Andrei Dumitrascu is the creative force behind our website. With a lifetime of experience on the water and an insatiable love for the culinary arts, he is not just a passionate angler but also a seasoned chef.
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