Fish stew

Brudet – a fish stew with a rich tradition, a savory dish that evokes memories of sunny days spent by the sea. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family meal or a dinner with friends, boasting an amazing taste and delightful aroma. Brudet is an excellent choice for those who love fish, offering a delicious combination of fresh ingredients and a rich tomato sauce.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fish (recommended: mackerel, but you can also use other types of fish like sea bream or perch)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 100 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil, if preferred)
- 2 medium onions
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 800 g fresh tomatoes (or 3 tablespoons tomato paste)
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (ideally balsamic or white wine vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon Vegeta (or other preferred seasoning)
- ½ cup water or white wine (for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley (for serving)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning and washing the fish thoroughly. Cut it into evenly sized pieces for even cooking. Season the fish with salt to taste, then coat each piece in flour, ensuring it is evenly covered.

2. Frying the fish: In a large skillet, heat the oil over high heat. Add the fish pieces and fry them for about 2 minutes on each side until golden. Remove the fish from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess fat.

3. Preparing the sauce: In the same skillet, add the julienned onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 1 minute until translucent. Then, add the peeled and diced tomatoes. Cover and let simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the fish and seasonings: Once the tomato sauce has reduced and thickened, return the fried fish to the skillet. Pour in the vinegar, water or white wine, Vegeta, and pepper. Let it simmer over low heat for 20 minutes without stirring, just gently shaking the skillet from time to time to avoid breaking the fish apart.

5. Finishing the dish: Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to add a touch of freshness and flavor.

Serving suggestions: Traditionally, brudet is served alongside hot polenta, which will absorb the delicious sauce. You can also add a light green salad or grilled vegetables for a contrast of textures and colors. A slice of lemon on the side will perfectly complement the dish, adding a touch of acidity.

Variations: Experiment with different types of fish or even seafood like shrimp or squid. You can replace fresh tomatoes with tomato sauce or paste for a quicker version. Additionally, adding green or black olives can bring an interesting and authentic flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Fish is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Additionally, tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which helps maintain skin and cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, frozen fish is a good option, but make sure to fully thaw and dry it well before cooking.

- What wine should I choose to accompany the brudet? A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, will perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

- Can brudet be made in advance? Yes, this dish can be made a day ahead. The flavors will intensify and improve as it cools.

In conclusion, brudet is a simple yet flavorful dish that can turn any meal into a special occasion. Try making it and enjoy every bite! You will surely want to make it again. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg fish (mackerel) 3 tablespoons flour 100 ml olive oil 2 onions 5 cloves of garlic 800 g tomatoes or 3 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons vinegar 1 tablespoon Vegeta 1/2 cup water or white wine salt and pepper to taste