Fish in a crispy crust, with grilled polenta

Delicious fish recipe in a crispy crust, served with grilled polenta

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

This crispy crust fish recipe perfectly combines the crunchy texture of the crust with soft, flavorful polenta, offering a delicious and comforting dish. The idea is to achieve tender and juicy fish, covered with a delicious crust, accompanied by well-prepared grilled polenta.

Ingredients:
- 4 fish fillets (preferably cod or trout)
- 100 g breadcrumbs (for a crispy crust)
- 50 g grated parmesan (for an intense flavor)
- 2 eggs
- 200 g feta cheese or grated cheese (for polenta)
- 300 g cornmeal
- 1 liter water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional, for a spicier flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the polenta: In a large pot, bring 1 liter of water with a pinch of salt to a boil. When the water starts to boil, slowly add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a whisk to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the polenta becomes very thick, about 10-15 minutes. Once ready, remove from heat and incorporate the grated cheese. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition.

2. Shaping the polenta: Spread the polenta on a tray lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper, giving it an even shape of about 1-2 cm thick. Let it cool and firm up, then cut the polenta into desired shapes (cubes, circles, or triangles).

3. Preparing the fish: Meanwhile, prepare the fish. Wash the fillets well and dry them with a paper towel. Add salt, pepper, and, if desired, sweet paprika for extra flavor.

4. Creating the crust: In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the grated parmesan. Dip each fish fillet in the eggs, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly covered.

5. Frying the fish: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the fish fillets and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

6. Grilling the polenta: Meanwhile, preheat the grill. Place the polenta shapes on the grill and let them brown for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy.

7. Serving: Place the fish fillets on plates and serve them alongside the grilled polenta. You can add a fresh salad or a few slices of lemon for a delicious contrast.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of fish, such as salmon or sea bream, to add a personal touch.
- If you want a healthier option, you can bake the fish instead of frying it.
- The polenta can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, then cut and grilled when you are ready to serve the meal.

This crispy crust fish recipe with grilled polenta is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. Try it and enjoy the authentic taste of Romanian dishes!

 Ingredients: -2 fish fillets (I used cod) -1 large egg or 2 small ones -1 cup cornflakes -200 g corn flour -3 cloves of garlic -2-3 tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes -salt, pepper, basil -oil -50 g cheese