“Spicy Mediterranean Whole Fish Delight”

“Spicy Mediterranean Whole Fish Delight”

Ingredients:

For the Fish:

• 1 whole white fish (such as sea bass, snapper, or tilapia), cleaned and scaled
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• A few sprigs of fresh herbs (like dill or parsley)

For the Spicy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Equipment:

• Large skillet or a fish poacher
• Saucepan

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:
   • Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season inside and out with salt and black pepper.
   • Stuff the cavity of the fish with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
   • If steaming, place the fish in a steamer over boiling water, cover, and steam for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the fish, until the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
   • If poaching, bring a large skillet of salted water (enough to cover the fish) to a simmer, add the fish, cover, and cook gently for 15-20 minutes.
2. Make the Spicy Sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, and sauté until soft and translucent.
   • Stir in tomatoes, chili, paprika, cumin, and coriander. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve:
   • Carefully remove the fish from the steamer or skillet and place on a serving dish.
   • Spoon the spicy sauce over the fish.
   • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad, and perhaps some crusty bread or over cooked rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Title for the Recipe:

“Seaside Poached Fish with Spicy Tomato Sauce”

This title reflects the fresh and spicy elements of the dish and hints at an ideal setting for enjoying such a meal, emphasizing the fresh, oceanic origins of the ingredients. Enjoy creating this flavorful seafood experience!