Baked King Fish in Tomato Sauce
Description:
Discover the irresistible flavors of this Madhur Jaffrey-inspired Baked King Fish recipe, a gem for any fish lover. King Fish, also known as King Mackerel or cod, is the star of this dish. Freshly delivered right to my door from Jai Singh, my trusted fish vendor, it boasts a quality that’s almost as fresh as the sea itself. This recipe stands out among the many I’ve cherished and perfected over the years, and its status as one of my favorites is a testament to its delicious simplicity. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking to introduce some new flavors into your kitchen, this dish is sure to please. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, it’s a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of the sea with an Indian twist.
Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Category: Asian
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 900 grams of King Fish (or Cod) steaks
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger root, minced
- 3 tomatoes, chopped (or use canned tomatoes with their liquid)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 2 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
- 6 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons oil (plus extra for browning the fish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Fish:
- Begin by washing and drying the King Fish steaks thoroughly. Pat them down with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring they are ready for marinating.
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Marinate the Fish:
- In a bowl, combine the salt, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Rub this mixture all over the fish steaks. Allow the fish to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses the fish with deep, aromatic flavors and prepares it for the next stages of cooking.
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Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the fennel seeds and mustard seeds. When the mustard seeds start to pop, add the finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and minced ginger root to the skillet.
- Sauté the mixture until the onions turn a light brown, releasing their sweet and savory aroma.
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Add Spices and Tomatoes:
- Stir in 2 teaspoons of cumin powder and the slit green chilies. Continue to cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add the chopped tomatoes (along with their liquid if using canned). Stir well, then add the remaining cumin powder and garam masala. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for about 15 minutes on low. This simmering step helps the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken.
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Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Heat a bit more oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated fish steaks to the pan. Brown the fish on both sides for a few minutes. This step adds a nice texture to the fish and helps seal in the flavors.
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Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the browned fish steaks to a baking dish. Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the fish, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Bake the fish uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The baking process allows the fish to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce, resulting in a tender and aromatic dish.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Baked King Fish with your choice of sides, such as steamed rice, naan bread, or a fresh salad.
This recipe brings together the vibrant spices and rich flavors characteristic of Indian cuisine, transforming simple fish into a delightful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire. 🌟🍽️🐟
