Marinated fish, (1) under homemade conditions

Marinated Small Fish – A Homemade Delicacy

Of course, cooking can be an art or a tradition, and seafood dishes are among the most captivating and satisfying. Preparing marinated fish at home not only gives you control over the ingredients but also brings you a unique culinary joy. Today, I invite you to discover our recipe for marinated small fish, a versatile delicacy that can be served as an appetizer or snack. This recipe will yield an excellent result, full of flavors and taste, perfect for festive meals or any day of the week.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Marinating time: 14 hours (including onion marinating)
- Total time: 14 hours and 30 minutes
- Servings: 6-8

Ingredients
- 2 kg of small fish (preferably fresh fish, such as anchovies or sardines)
- 800 g - 1 kg of coarse salt
- 400 ml of oil (neutral, such as sunflower oil)
- 200 ml of white vinegar or white wine vinegar (6-9%)
- 200 ml of water
- Bay leaves (3-4 leaves)
- Whole peppercorns (10-12 peppercorns)
- Rosemary sprigs (optional, about 2-3)
- Onion (1-2 onions, depending on preferences)
- Garlic (6-7 cloves, sliced)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Selecting and Preparing the Fish
Choosing fresh fish is essential for an exceptional result. Look for fish with smooth, shiny skin and no unpleasant odor. Clean the fish of heads and entrails, then rinse them under running water. Drying the fish with paper towels is crucial to remove excess water that could dilute the marinade.

Step 2: Salting the Fish
In a wider dish, place the small fish and cover them evenly with coarse salt. Let them absorb the salt for 3-4 hours. This process will not only salt them but also help preserve them, giving them a more pleasant texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Marinade
After the fish have been salted, remove the excess salt with a paper towel. Arrange them back side up in another dish. Boil the water together with the bay leaves and peppercorns, then let it cool. Once cooled, mix the water with the vinegar and pour this marinade over the fish. They will need to sit in the marinade for 4 hours, covered with foil or a lid.

Step 4: Adding Flavors
To give them a rich flavor, add a few sprigs of rosemary and the garlic slices among the fish. It is essential not to remove the bones, as they help the fish maintain its shape and not fall apart in the marinade. Then, pour the oil over the fish.

Step 5: Marinating the Onion
Don’t forget to prepare the onion! Slice it into rounds and add it to the remaining marinade. Let it marinate for about 2 hours, giving it a distinct flavor.

Step 6: Serving
After the fish have marinated for 10 hours (or even longer if you prefer a more intense taste), you can serve them. You can accompany them with the marinated onion and a slice of fresh bread. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or pickles, providing a delicious contrast.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the Fish: Always choose seasonal fish for maximum flavor.
- The Oil: Neutral oil is ideal so as not to disturb the delicate flavors of the fish.
- Vegetable Variation: You can add vegetables, such as carrots or peppers, to diversify the recipe.
- Marinating Time: If you want a more intense flavor, you can leave the fish to marinate for up to 24 hours.

Nutritional Benefits
Small fish are an excellent source of quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, benefits that contribute to heart health and optimal brain function. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and selenium.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of fish? Absolutely! This recipe works well with other types of fish, but make sure to choose fresh fish.
2. What can I do with the leftover marinade? The marinade can be used to flavor other vegetables or meat, but do not reuse it for fish.
3. How long do marinated fish last? If stored in the refrigerator, they can last up to a week.

Variations and Combinations
These marinated fish can be served with a variety of accompaniments. You might try pairing them with a yogurt dill sauce or a potato salad. A refreshing drink, such as white wine or lemonade, will perfectly complement the meal.

In conclusion, preparing marinated small fish at home is a rewarding culinary experience. So, put on your apron and enjoy the cooking process, letting yourself be carried away by the flavors and textures of this delicious recipe. Whether you serve them at a special occasion or simply at a casual dinner, these delights will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 2 kg of minced fish 800 g - 1 kg of coarse salt 400 ml of oil 200 ml of white vinegar or white wine vinegar, 6-9 % 200 ml of water bay leaves aromatic peppercorns rosemary onion garlic

 Tags:  marinated fish