Avocado with Smoked Fish

Avocado with Smoked Fish Recipe from Ghana | Eggs, Lime Juice, Avocados, Red Bell Pepper

Region / culture: Ghana | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Avocado with Smoked Fish is a delightful recipe that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the rich, smoky flavor of fish. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties of seafood paired with the buttery taste of avocados. It's a versatile recipe that can be served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a healthy snack. The combination of ingredients not only pleases the palate but also offers a range of nutritional benefits.

History

The history of combining avocados with fish dates back to ancient times when coastal communities would often pair locally caught fish with fruits and vegetables that were readily available, including avocados. Over time, this pairing evolved into more sophisticated dishes, with smoked fish and avocados becoming a popular combination in various cuisines around the world. This particular recipe, with its unique blend of flavors and ingredients, is a modern take on a classic pairing, celebrating the timeless love for avocados and smoked fish.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) of firm smoked salmon, 4 eggs (hard-boiled) with whites separated from yolks
0.25 cup of lime juice
0.25 tsp of sugar
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 cup of cooking oil
2 tbsp of olive oil
2 large ripe avocados
1 large red bell pepper

How to prepare

Remove the skin and bones from the smoked fish and flake the flesh with a fork.
In a deep bowl, mash the egg yolks with the milk until they form a smooth paste.
Add the sugar, salt, and 1 tbsp of lime juice.
Then beat in the olive oil, one teaspoon at a time.
Finely chop the egg whites and add them to the bowl, along with the fish.
Combine thoroughly but gently.
Just before serving, cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and fill them with the fish mixture.
Garnish with pepper and pass around the remaining lime juice to sprinkle on individual servings.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, replace the smoked fish with smoked tofu or tempeh. You can also experiment with different types of smoked fish, such as salmon, trout, or mackerel, to vary the flavor profile. Adding fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can enhance the freshness of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use ripe avocados that are just soft enough to yield to gentle pressure. When smoking the fish, aim for a balance of smokiness and moisture to keep the fish flavorful without overpowering the delicate taste of the avocado. For a smoother filling, thoroughly mash the egg yolks and incorporate the olive oil gradually to achieve a creamy consistency. Lastly, adding the lime juice just before serving helps to maintain the vibrant color of the avocado and adds a fresh zest to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served on a bed of mixed greens or alongside whole-grain crackers for added texture and flavor. It also pairs well with a light, citrusy dressing or vinaigrette to complement the smoky taste of the fish and the creaminess of the avocado.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique in this recipe is the careful preparation of the smoked fish and the blending of the egg yolk mixture to achieve a smooth, creamy filling. Gentle folding of the ingredients helps to maintain the texture and integrity of the fish and avocados.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lime juice is not available, lemon juice can be used as a substitute. For those who do not consume eggs, a vegan mayonnaise can replace the egg yolk mixture. Additionally, any mild-flavored cooking oil can be used in place of olive oil if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

The fish mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld. However, it's best to fill the avocados and add the lime juice just before serving to ensure the avocados remain fresh and vibrant.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the filled avocados on a platter garnished with lime wedges and a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs for a touch of color and flavor. A drizzle of olive oil can also add a glossy, appetizing finish.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy beer. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

It's best to consume this dish fresh, as avocados may brown and lose their texture upon storage. If necessary, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. This dish is not suitable for freezing or reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Avocado with Smoked Fish contains approximately 250 calories. The majority of these calories come from the healthy fats in the avocados and olive oil, with protein and carbohydrates contributing to the remainder.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the avocados and the red bell pepper. Avocados contain about 9 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, while red bell peppers contain about 6 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams. The overall carbohydrate content per serving of this dish is approximately 10 grams, making it a suitable option for low-carb diets.

Fats

Avocado with Smoked Fish is rich in healthy fats, primarily from the avocados and olive oil. Avocados are an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Olive oil also contributes monounsaturated fats, along with polyunsaturated fats. The total fat content per serving is approximately 20 grams, with a significant portion being heart-healthy fats.

Proteins

The smoked fish is the primary source of protein in this recipe, providing high-quality, lean protein that is essential for muscle repair and growth. Depending on the type of fish used, the protein content can vary, but on average, this dish provides about 15 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a variety of vitamins and minerals. Avocados are rich in vitamin K, folate, vitamin E, and potassium. The red bell pepper adds a boost of vitamin C, vitamin A, and additional folate. The smoked fish contributes B vitamins, including B12 and niacin. Together, these ingredients make the dish an excellent source of essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains egg yolks, which are a common allergen. Additionally, individuals with a fish allergy should avoid this dish. It's always important to consider individual dietary restrictions and allergies when preparing and serving this recipe.

Summary

Avocado with Smoked Fish is a balanced dish that provides healthy fats, lean protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a nutritious option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Summary

Avocado with Smoked Fish is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the rich taste of smoked fish. It's a versatile recipe that offers health benefits and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. With its simple preparation and elegant presentation, it's sure to impress both the palate and the eyes.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Avocado with Smoked Fish. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a farmers market with a beautiful ripe avocado and a fresh fillet of smoked fish. As I stood in my kitchen, pondering what to make for lunch, inspiration struck. I decided to combine these two ingredients to create a simple yet delicious dish that would showcase the flavors of both the avocado and the smoked fish.

I had learned the art of cooking from a young age, watching my mother and grandmother in the kitchen as they whipped up delicious meals for our family. Over the years, I had collected a vast array of recipes from various places and people, each one holding a special place in my heart. This recipe for Avocado with Smoked Fish was no exception.

The first time I made this dish, I followed my instincts and combined the avocado and smoked fish with a drizzle of lemon juice, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of pepper. The result was a refreshing and savory salad that was bursting with flavor. I couldn't believe how simple it was to make, yet how delicious it tasted.

As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I couldn't help but think back to the day I first learned how to make this dish. It was during a trip to the coast with my husband, where we stumbled upon a quaint little seafood shack that was famous for its smoked fish. Intrigued, we decided to stop in and try some for ourselves.

The owner of the shack, an elderly man with a twinkle in his eye, welcomed us warmly and offered us a taste of his prized smoked fish. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – smoky, salty, and incredibly flavorful. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to incorporate this delicious ingredient into my cooking.

I struck up a conversation with the owner, asking him for tips on how to use smoked fish in recipes. He shared with me his favorite ways to enjoy it, including in salads, pastas, and even on sandwiches. But it was his recipe for Avocado with Smoked Fish that truly captivated me.

He explained that the creamy texture of the avocado was the perfect complement to the smoky flavor of the fish, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. He showed me how to carefully slice the avocado and arrange it on a plate, topping it with flakes of smoked fish and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The result was a simple yet elegant dish that highlighted the natural flavors of the ingredients.

I thanked the kind man for sharing his recipe with me and vowed to recreate it at home. And so, that's how I came to discover this wonderful recipe for Avocado with Smoked Fish. It has since become a staple in my kitchen, a go-to dish that never fails to impress.

As I finish my meal, savoring the last bite of creamy avocado and smoky fish, I can't help but feel grateful for the knowledge and inspiration that I have gained over the years. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express my creativity and share my love with others. And this recipe for Avocado with Smoked Fish is just one of the many treasures that I have collected along the way.

I look forward to passing on this recipe to future generations, sharing the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious and beautiful in the kitchen. And who knows – perhaps one day, my own grandchildren will be inspired to discover their own signature dishes, just like I did all those years ago. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am grateful for every moment that I get to spend in the kitchen, creating memories and delicious meals that will last a lifetime.