Overfilled with baked ham

Delicious recipe for oven-baked fish stuffed with smoked ham

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 1-2 hours
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: 2-3 hours
Number of servings: 4

A festive meal where the smoked ham stuffed fish is the star will not only impress guests but also bring a touch of joy to everyday tables. This recipe evokes old culinary traditions, combining simple ingredients with refined cooking techniques, resulting in a savory and elegant dish.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 medium-sized ocean fish (about 1.5 kg), preferably with white flesh
- 8 slices of smoked ham (presunto or other preferred type)
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 large onions
- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup of tomato juice
- 1 cup of white wine
- Olive oil
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 kg of potatoes for garnish

Brief history

Stuffed fish is a recipe that has been appreciated for generations, with deep roots in gastronomy. This cooking method allows the fish to be infused with intense flavors, and the varied stuffing adds an extra layer of taste. The use of smoked ham provides a richness and complexity, transforming the dish into a culinary feast.

Preparation instructions

1. Preparing the fish:
- Choose a medium-sized ocean fish that is fresh and has white flesh. Fish like sea bream or bass are ideal. Clean the fish of scales and carefully fillet it, ensuring that all large bones are removed.
- Cut the fish into suitable pieces, about 150-200 g each. These pieces will be stuffed and baked evenly.
- In a bowl, marinate the fish pieces with salt, pepper, and 2-3 crushed garlic cloves. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat well.

2. Preparing the sauce:
- Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. Slice the onion and bell pepper into thin strips (julienne).
- In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the bell pepper and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Crush the remaining 2-3 garlic cloves and add them to the skillet, along with the bay leaf. Mix well and add the diced tomatoes and tomato juice.
- Pour in the white wine and let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assembling the dish:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- In a glass or ceramic dish, arrange the fish pieces. Each piece is filled with 1-2 slices of smoked ham, which will add a rich flavor and keep the filling juicy.
- Pour the warm sauce over the fish, ensuring that each piece is well covered.

4. Baking:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the fish from drying out and place it in the oven for 30-40 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure that the fish is cooked evenly and that the sauce does not evaporate completely.

5. Preparing the garnish:
- While the fish is baking, peel and cut the potatoes into slices or cubes. You can choose to fry or boil them, depending on your preferences. Fried potatoes add a crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft fish.

Serving

For an elegant presentation, place the fish on a large platter, drizzled with a bit of sauce on top. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley or lemon slices for a vibrant look. Add fried potato slices or mashed potatoes on the side, and the meal will be complete.

Useful tips

- Choosing the fish: Make sure to choose a fresh fish with white flesh and few bones. Check the fish's eyes; they should be clear and shiny.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of fillings by adding green or black olives, capers, or even feta cheese. You can also replace the smoked ham with bacon or smoked fish fillets.
- Recommended drinks: This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine that complements the rich flavors of the fish and smoked ham. Fresh lemonade or a citrus-based cocktail can also be excellent choices.

Nutritional information

Fish is an excellent source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Additionally, smoked ham adds an extra protein note, but be mindful of the sodium content. Fried potatoes provide carbohydrates, but you can opt for a healthier version by boiling or lightly baking them.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen fish?
- Yes, you can use frozen fish, but make sure it is completely thawed before marinating.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?
- You can reduce the amount of olive oil and use lean ham or even omit it completely.

3. What else can I add to the sauce?
- Fresh herbs like dill or coriander can add a fresh and aromatic taste to the sauce.

4. Is this dish suitable for special occasions?
- Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for festive meals, bringing an air of sophistication and elegance.

With each step, this recipe for smoked ham stuffed fish becomes a true culinary experience. So, embrace the art of cooking and enjoy the aroma of traditions in a modern form! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 1 medium ocean perch, 8 slices of smoked ham (presunto), 2 red bell peppers, 2 large onions, 3 tomatoes, 1 glass of tomato juice, 1 glass of white wine, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, bay leaf, potatoes (1 kg)

 Tags:  overfilled