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How to Cook a Whole Fish

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  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Global

Description

A flavorful and nutritious way to prepare a whole fish, this recipe is packed with herbs and spices, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 whole fish, scaled, gutted, and washed (e.g., Pompano)
  • 1/2 red bell pepper
  • 3 sprigs parsley
  • 1/2 thumb-sized ginger
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1/2 celery stalk
  • 2 spring onions
  • 1/4 medium onion
  • 1 teaspoon seasoning powder or bouillon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) using the broil or grill option.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

  • In a blender, combine red bell pepper, parsley, ginger, garlic, celery, spring onions, onion, seasoning powder, salt, thyme, black pepper, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Prepare the Fish

  1. Pat the fish dry and make deep diagonal cuts 1 inch apart on both sides.
  2. Pat dry again to remove any excess moisture.

Step 4: Marinate the Fish

  1. Brush or rub the marinade generously over the fish, including inside the belly.
  2. (Optional) Stuff the belly with lemon slices and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
  3. Cover and let the fish marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Fish

  1. Place the fish on a broiler pan and lightly spray or brush it with oil.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 6: Cook Remaining Marinade

  1. Add a bit of oil to the leftover marinade and cook in the microwave for 5 minutes or simmer in a saucepan over medium heat for 5 minutes.
  2. Use this as a basting sauce.

Step 7: Baste While Cooking

  • Brush the fish with the cooked marinade every 5 minutes, ensuring the fish stays moist and flavorful.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

  1. Once cooked, remove the fish from the oven and let it rest for 3–5 minutes.
  2. Transfer to a plate using a serving spoon.
  3. Serve with the cooked marinade as a dip alongside your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Choice of Fish: Pompano, snapper, or sea bass work well in this recipe.
  • Extra Flavor: Add lemon zest or chili flakes to the marinade for a zesty kick.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.