Fish in Tomato Marinade

Fish in Tomato Marinade Recipe from Estonia

Region / culture: Estonia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fish in tomato marinade is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of fish with the tanginess of a tomato-based sauce. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

The origins of fish in tomato marinade can be traced back to Mediterranean cuisine, where fish is a staple ingredient. The combination of fish and tomatoes is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has evolved to include a variety of spices and seasonings to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Ingredients

Fish

1.5 lb (680 g) of whitefish fillets with skin left on, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 tbsp of salt
freshly ground black pepper
0.5 cup of flour
0.5 cup of vegetable oil

Sauce

0.75 cup of vegetable oil
2 tbsp of white vinegar
3 tsp of sugar
0.25 tsp of powdered cloves
2 cup of coarsely chopped onions
0.75 cup of tomato paste
1 bay leaf, coarsely crumbled
5 whole black peppercorns
1 tsp of salt

How to prepare

Sprinkle 1 tbsp of salt and a few grindings of pepper on the fish. Coat it well with flour and vigorously remove any excess flour.
Heat up oil in a heavy 10 to 12-inch skillet until a light haze forms above it.
Add some pieces of fish, lower the heat to moderate, and brown them for 3 to 5 minutes on each side.
Transfer the browned fish onto double thickness of paper towels. Repeat this with all the fish.
Pour 0.33 of the marinade into a shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) enameled baking dish and arrange half of the fish in a single layer.
Moisten the fish with 0.33 more of the marinade and arrange the remaining fish in another layer on top.
Pour in the remaining marinade and let the fish marinate uncovered and unrefrigerated for at least 6 hours.
Refrigerate, tightly covered with plastic wrap, for at least 24 hours before serving.

Sauce

In a heavy 10- to 12-inch skillet, heat the oil over high heat until a light haze forms above it.
Drop in the onions, reduce the heat to moderate, and cook for a few minutes until the onions are soft but not brown, stirring frequently.
Stir in the tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, cloves, bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt. Bring to a boil.
Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and simmer undisturbed for about 15 minutes. Then remove from heat and cool the marinade to lukewarm.

Variations

Add olives or capers to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Use different types of fish such as salmon or cod for a unique twist on the recipe.
Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a more complex flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to remove any excess flour from the fish before cooking to prevent it from burning in the oil.

- Marinating the fish for at least 24 hours before serving will allow the flavors to fully develop and infuse into the fish.

- Be sure to cook the onions until they are soft but not brown to prevent them from becoming bitter in the sauce.

- Simmering the marinade for 15 minutes will allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and flavorful sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the fish in tomato marinade with a side of steamed vegetables and a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal. It pairs well with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the fish before marinating it will add a depth of flavor to the dish.

- Simmering the sauce slowly will allow the flavors to develop and intensify.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any whitefish fillets for this recipe, such as cod or haddock.

- Olive oil can be used in place of vegetable oil for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will continue to develop as it marinates, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the fish in tomato marinade on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A light and refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette would also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish and sauce in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

400

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 30g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 8% DV

Alergens

Contains fish

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Fish in tomato marinade is a classic dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some time to marinate, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy this dish with your family and friends for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her quaint little cottage by the sea. As we sat on her porch, enjoying the fresh ocean breeze, she suddenly disappeared into her kitchen and returned with a platter of the most mouthwatering fish I had ever seen.

"It's fish in tomato marinade," she explained with a smile. "A recipe passed down from my grandmother."

I watched in awe as she effortlessly prepared the dish, mixing together ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a medley of fresh herbs. The aroma that filled the air was simply intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As we sat down to eat, the flavors exploded in my mouth. The tangy sweetness of the tomatoes combined with the delicate flakiness of the fish was a match made in heaven. I couldn't believe something so delicious could be so easy to make.

From that moment on, I was determined to learn Maria's recipe for fish in tomato marinade. I begged her to teach me, and she graciously agreed. We spent the entire afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, stirring, and laughing as we recreated the dish together.

As I watched Maria work her magic, I realized that cooking wasn't just about following a recipe – it was about passion, creativity, and love. Each ingredient was carefully selected, each step was executed with precision, and the end result was a masterpiece that brought joy to everyone who tasted it.

Over the years, I made Maria's fish in tomato marinade countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I would add a splash of white wine for extra richness, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. No matter how I changed it up, the dish always remained a family favorite.

As I grew older, I found myself collecting recipes from friends, family, and even strangers I met on my travels. Each recipe told a story, a memory, a tradition that had been passed down through generations. I cherished these recipes like precious treasures, each one a glimpse into someone else's world.

One day, I came across a faded handwritten recipe for fish in tomato marinade in an old cookbook at a flea market. The instructions were simple, the ingredients basic, but there was something about the way it was written that spoke to me. It was as if the recipe had been waiting for me to discover it, to breathe new life into it and make it my own.

I brought the recipe home and immediately set to work. I could almost hear the whispers of the women who had come before me, guiding my hands as I chopped, stirred, and simmered. The familiar scent of tomatoes and garlic filled the air, transporting me back to that summer day at Maria's cottage by the sea.

When the dish was finally ready, I took a hesitant bite. The flavors burst on my tongue, bringing tears to my eyes. It was as if I had unlocked a hidden treasure, a secret that had been passed down through time and space, just waiting for me to uncover it.

From that day on, fish in tomato marinade became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I cooked it, I felt the presence of all the women who had come before me, guiding me, inspiring me, and reminding me of the power of tradition and love.

And so, as I sit here now, penning this story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one holds a special place in my heart, a memory of a time, a place, a person who has touched my life in some way.

But fish in tomato marinade will always hold a special place in my soul. It is more than just a recipe – it is a connection to my past, a link to my roots, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

And so, as I pass this recipe on to you, my dear grandchildren, I hope that you will cherish it as much as I have. May it bring you joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging, just as it has done for me all these years. And may you always remember that the most important ingredient in any recipe is love.