Fish with Garlic Sauce like in the Delta

Chop the garlic with a sharp knife, then, using the flat side, gently crush it on the wooden board. This technique will help release the intense flavors from the garlic. Place the chopped garlic in a wooden mortar, a traditional tool, ideal for achieving a fine paste. Add coarse salt, which will not only help crush the garlic but also enhance its flavor. With a pestle, continue to crush the garlic until it becomes a homogeneous paste. Gradually add oil in a thin stream, mixing constantly, as if making mayonnaise. Taking care not to add too much oil at once, you will notice how the volume of the mixture triples, becoming creamy and airy.

When you have achieved a rich texture, add the first tablespoon of vinegar and continue mixing. This step is crucial, as the vinegar will add a tangy taste that will balance the oil. Continue to add oil, being careful that the emulsion does not separate. When the mixture becomes consistent, add a tablespoon of water and another tablespoon of vinegar to adjust the texture. If the garlic sauce looks like a well-made, stiff mayonnaise, it is ready. If it hasn't reached the desired consistency, add more oil and mix until it becomes solid and creamy, like high-quality mayonnaise.

This recipe can also be made in a bowl, but using the wooden mortar is essential, especially in the Danube Delta, where it can be easily transported in boat luggage and can also be used for other dishes. Place the pieces of fish from the hot soup on a plate, alongside the steaming polenta, and incorporate the thick garlic sauce on top.

When you sit down to eat, start enjoying the fish cheeks, which cool down faster, then continue with the fillet, starting from the head. Finally, enjoy the meat from the tail, which is more pronounced in flavor, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience. When you feel your mouth burning from the intense spice, extinguish the fire with the warm soup waiting for you, thus completing a delicious meal full of flavors and tradition.

 Ingredients: Quantities for 4 people: 4 cloves of garlic, 100 ml of oil, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of water, salt.

 Tags:  garlic oil gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes vegetarian recipes