Carp Slavonian Style (Saran na slavonski nacin)

Carp Slavonian Style (Saran na slavonski nacin) Recipe from Croatia

Region / culture: Croatia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Carp Slavonian Style (Saran na slavonski nacin)

Carp Slavonian Style, also known as Saran na slavonski nacin, is a traditional Croatian dish that features tender carp fish cooked with potatoes, bacon, and a variety of seasonings. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in the Slavonia region of Croatia, where carp is a popular and abundant fish. The combination of carp, potatoes, and bacon creates a delicious and satisfying meal that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the area.

Ingredients

2 lb (1 kg) carp
1.75 lb (800 g) potatoes
3 tbsp oil
3 oz (80 g) smoked bacon
1 tsp ground sweet red pepper
parsley
salt and
pepper

How to prepare

Descale the Carp and remove the insides. Remove the head, wash, and drain. Cut into thick slices.
Boil the head in a little water.
Peel the potatoes, cut into thin slices, and sprinkle with salt.
Cut the Bacon into small strips and chop the parsley.
Smear a baking tin with oil. Arrange half of the potatoes in it and sprinkle with sweet red pepper, parsley, and white pepper.
Place the Carp slices on top of the potatoes. Sprinkle with salt. Cover with the remaining potatoes and sprinkle again with sweet red pepper, parsley, and white pepper.
Lightly fry the bacon and dress it over the potatoes.
Pour the liquid in which the Carp head was boiled over the whole dish.
Bake in a pre-heated oven until cooked to a nice golden-brown.

Variations

Substitute the carp with another type of white fish, such as cod or haddock.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or paprika, to customize the dish to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to descale and clean the carp thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities.

- Layering the potatoes and seasonings in the baking tin ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

- Baking the dish in the oven allows the flavors to meld together and creates a crispy golden-brown crust on top.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Carp Slavonian Style with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing beer for a delightful dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the dish in the oven allows the flavors to meld together and creates a crispy golden-brown crust on top.

- Boiling the carp head in water adds depth and richness to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil or butter instead of regular oil for a richer flavor.

- Swap out the smoked bacon for pancetta or ham for a different taste profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare Carp Slavonian Style ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the dish with foil and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it in a decorative baking dish or on a platter for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Carp Slavonian Style pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. For drinks, try serving it with a crisp white wine or a light lager.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Carp Slavonian Style in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Carp Slavonian Style contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Carp Slavonian Style contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from the potatoes used in the recipe.

Fats

This dish is rich in fats, with approximately 20 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the oil and bacon used in the recipe.

Proteins

Carp Slavonian Style is a good source of protein, with each serving containing around 25 grams of protein from the carp and bacon.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron from the potatoes and parsley.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and pork products, so it may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Overall, Carp Slavonian Style is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Carp Slavonian Style is a delicious and comforting dish that highlights the flavors of carp fish, potatoes, and bacon. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a memorable meal that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. Enjoy this traditional Croatian recipe with your family and friends for a taste of Slavonian cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Carp Slavonian Style. It was a warm summer day in the small village of Slavonski Brod, where I had the pleasure of attending a local cooking class led by a kind elderly woman named Ljubica. She was known throughout the village for her delicious traditional dishes, and I was eager to learn from her.

As I entered Ljubica's humble kitchen, the aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. She greeted me with a smile and welcomed me to join the other eager learners gathered around the wooden table. I took a seat and watched intently as she began to prepare the ingredients for the Carp Slavonian Style.

Ljubica explained that this dish was a staple in Slavonian cuisine, known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. She started by carefully cleaning and filleting the fresh carp, a prized fish in the region. As she worked, she shared stories of her childhood spent by the riverside, fishing with her father and learning the art of cooking from her mother.

I listened attentively, soaking in every detail of her method and technique. Ljubica seasoned the fish with a blend of garlic, paprika, and salt, then coated it in a mixture of flour and breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior. She heated a generous amount of oil in a large skillet, then gently placed the fish fillets in, sizzling as they cooked to perfection.

As the fish turned golden brown and fragrant, Ljubica prepared a side dish of creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. She plated the Carp Slavonian Style with a sprinkle of parsley and a squeeze of lemon, making it look almost too beautiful to eat.

I eagerly dug into my first bite, savoring the tender fish and the flavorful seasoning. The combination of textures and tastes was truly a delight for the senses, and I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

After the cooking class ended, I thanked Ljubica for her generosity and hospitality, promising to carry on the tradition of Carp Slavonian Style in my own home. She smiled and handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe, urging me to share it with my loved ones and pass it down through the generations.

As I returned to my own kitchen, I couldn't wait to recreate the dish for my family. I carefully followed Ljubica's instructions, savoring each step and remembering the time spent in her cozy kitchen. The aroma of the fish cooking brought back memories of that warm summer day in Slavonski Brod, and I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.

Now, whenever I make Carp Slavonian Style for my grandchildren, I share the story of how I learned the recipe from a kind and talented woman named Ljubica. I pass on her wisdom and love for cooking, hoping to inspire the next generation to embrace the traditions of our ancestors and savor the flavors of our heritage.

And as we gather around the table to enjoy the meal together, I see the joy in their eyes and the appreciation in their smiles. I know that this recipe, steeped in history and tradition, will continue to bring us together and create lasting memories for years to come. And for that, I am truly grateful.