Oven-baked fish with salt

Baked Salted Fish - a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for fish lovers. This cooking method is not only easy to execute but also effective in preserving the juiciness and natural flavors of the fish. The origins of this technique date back to ancient times when people discovered that salt not only preserves but also enhances the taste of food. Here’s how you can achieve perfectly cooked fish in a quick and tasty way!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-50 minutes (depending on the type of fish)
Total time: 45-65 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- Fresh fish (preferably whole or fillet, such as sea bream, bass, or salmon)
- 1 kg of kitchen salt (coarse salt)
- Spices to taste:
- Salt and pepper
- Marjoram
- Sweet or hot paprika
- Curry
- Fresh or dried basil
- 50 g butter or a few tablespoons of olive oil

Necessary utensils:
- A baking tray
- Baking paper (optional)
- Basting brush
- Fish thermometer (optional)

Step by step for perfectly salted fish:

1. Preparing the fish:
If using a whole fish, make sure it is scaled and gutted. You can ask the fishmonger to do this for you. Wash it well under cold water and dry it with paper towels. If you have a fillet, ensure it is fresh and boneless.

2. Seasoning:
Before adding salt, you can brush the fish with melted butter or olive oil to enhance its flavors. Sprinkle your preferred spices inside and outside the fish, being careful not to overdo it with salt, as the fish will absorb some from the tray.

3. Preparing the tray:
Take a baking tray and add a layer of salt about 1-2 cm thick. This layer will create a "blanket" of salt that will help cook the fish evenly. If desired, you can use baking paper to make cleaning easier later.

4. Placing the fish:
Carefully place the fish on the salt layer. Ensure it is well positioned and not bent. Cover the fish with another layer of salt, making sure it is well wrapped, but do not overdo it, as the fish should not be completely "buried."

5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180-200°C. Place the tray in the oven and let the fish bake. Baking time varies depending on the type of fish: a whole fish weighing about 1 kg will bake in approximately 40-50 minutes, while fillets may only need 30-40 minutes. A useful tip is to use a fish thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 63°C to be considered cooked.

6. Serving:
Once the fish is cooked, remove the tray from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes, then carefully remove the salt layer. You can use a spatula to lift the fish. Serve it with sides such as steamed vegetables, baked potatoes, or a fresh salad. A slice of lemon or your favorite yogurt sauce with dill will perfectly complement this dish.

Helpful tips:
- Choosing the fish: Opt for fresh fish, either white or red meat, depending on your preferences. Salmon, sea bream, or bass are excellent for this recipe.
- Spice variations: Experiment with different combinations of herbs. You can also try aromatic herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more intense flavor.
- Complementary sides: Salted fish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a gin and tonic cocktail, considering the freshness of the fish.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use kosher salt instead of kitchen salt?
Yes, kosher salt can be used, but make sure to adjust the amount, as the granules are larger and may be less salty per volume.

- How much fish can I cook at the same time?
Ensure that the fish has enough space in the tray to cook evenly. It’s better to make smaller portions than to overcrowd the tray.

- How can I tell if the fish is cooked?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Additionally, a kitchen thermometer can be a very useful tool to check the temperature.

This baked salted fish recipe is not only simple but also an excellent way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. With a bit of patience and attention, you will achieve a refined and healthy dish, full of delicious flavors and textures. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and experiment with ingredients and spices! Enjoy your meal!