In the realm of culinary artistry, few dishes evoke a sense of rustic elegance and timeless tradition like salt-crusted whole fish. This classic preparation, often associated with Mediterranean and European coastal cuisine, elevates the humble fish to a centerpiece, showcasing its delicate flavors and yielding succulent, flaky flesh.
Our curated collection of salt-crusted whole fish recipes takes you on a global culinary journey, offering variations that cater to diverse palates and preferences. From the classic French Loup de Mer en Croûte de Sel, where the fish is enveloped in a protective salt casing, to the vibrant Italian Orata al Sale, where herbs and citrus zest infuse the fish with Mediterranean flair, these recipes promise an unforgettable culinary experience.
Venture beyond European shores with our Moroccan Chermoula-Crusted Whole Fish, where the aromatic spice blend chermoula transforms the fish into a symphony of flavors. For a taste of Asian inspiration, try our Cantonese Steamed Fish, where the fish is gently steamed within a salt crust, resulting in a delicate and flavorful dish.
Each recipe is meticulously crafted to guide you through the process, ensuring success even for novice cooks. Detailed instructions, helpful tips, and stunning visuals accompany each recipe, making it easy to recreate these restaurant-worthy dishes in the comfort of your own kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients, prepare your taste buds, and embark on a culinary adventure with our salt-crusted whole fish recipes. Discover the beauty of simplicity and the transformative power of salt as you create dishes that will leave a lasting impression on your palate and the hearts of your loved ones.
SALT CRUSTED WHOLE FISH
Provided by Guy Fieri
Time 35m
Yield 2 servings
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, trimmed to extend 3-inches in diameter around outside of the fish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the egg whites, sea salt, flour, 2 tablespoons of the parsley and 1/2 cup of water. Mix with your hands until a thick paste forms.
- Fill the cavity of the fish with the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts and lemon slices. Rub the exterior of the fish with the garlic, then sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley and freshly ground black pepper
- Put the fish on the parchment lined baking sheet. Mound the salt paste evenly over the entire fish. Press the mixture firmly down to the baking sheet, being careful to seal any cracks.
- Bake the fish until the crust is golden brown and very firm, about 18 to 20 minutes.
- Slide the parchment and fish onto serving platter or cutting board and crack the crust with a handle of a large knife. Slide a spoon under the top fillet, over the spine, and lift it to a serving platter. Turn over and repeat. Garnish with lemon slices and serve immediately.
SALT CRUSTED WHOLE FISH
When looking for a recipe for salt crusted fish, saw this one on Guy Fieri's show and he says this process helps to cut down on the salty taste you can get from the other recipes (like the other one I have posted) What I know is that the ingredients and spices sound great so I want to save this. DH fell in love with the salt crusted fish served in Italy so I really need to get my game together on this method.
Provided by Bonnie G 2
Categories < 60 Mins
Time 35m
Yield 1 fish, 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, trimmed to extend 3-inches in diameter around outside of the fish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the egg whites, sea salt, flour, 2 tablespoons of the parsley and 1/2 cup of water. Mix with your hands until a thick paste forms.
- Fill the cavity of the fish with the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts and lemon slices.
- Rub the exterior of the fish with the garlic, then sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley and freshly ground black pepper.
- Put the fish on the parchment lined baking sheet. Mound the salt paste evenly over the entire fish.
- Press the mixture firmly down to the baking sheet, being careful to seal any cracks.
- Bake the fish until the crust is golden brown and very firm, about 18 to 20 minutes.
- Slide the parchment and fish onto serving platter or cutting board and crack the crust with a handle of a large knife.
- Slide a spoon under the top fillet, over the spine, and lift it to a serving platter.
- Turn over and repeat.
- Garnish with lemon slices and serve immediately.
Tips:
- Selecting the Right Fish: Choose a whole fish that is fresh and firm, with clear eyes and bright red gills. Opt for fish that are in season and locally caught to ensure the best quality and taste.
- Preparing the Salt Crust: Use a combination of coarse sea salt and fine salt to create the crust. The coarse salt provides a crunchy texture, while the fine salt helps bind the crust together. Adjust the amount of salt according to the size of the fish.
- Gutting and Cleaning the Fish: Ensure the fish is properly gutted and cleaned before preparing the salt crust. Remove the gills, entrails, and scales, and rinse the fish thoroughly inside and out.
- Creating a Flavorful Cavity: Stuff the fish's cavity with aromatic herbs, citrus slices, and vegetables like lemon, thyme, rosemary, and garlic. This will infuse the fish with flavor as it cooks.
- Baking the Fish: Preheat the oven to a high temperature (400-450°F) to create a crispy crust. Place the salt-crusted fish on a baking sheet and bake for the recommended time, which may vary depending on the size and thickness of the fish.
- Resting and Serving: Allow the fish to rest for a few minutes after baking to redistribute the juices and flavors. Break open the salt crust carefully to reveal the perfectly cooked fish. Serve with lemon wedges, herbs, and your favorite sides.
Conclusion:
Salt-crusted whole fish is a stunning and delicious dish that showcases the natural flavors of the fish while adding a delightful crispy texture. By following these tips and the detailed instructions provided in the recipe, you can create a memorable meal that will impress your family and friends. Experiment with different types of fish, herbs, and vegetables to create your own unique variations of this classic dish. Remember to handle the fish carefully, ensuring it is fresh and properly prepared, and enjoy the culinary delight of salt-crusted whole fish!
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