Choose healthier, less caloric methods over deep-frying fish
Christmas is traditionally a time when fish dishes stars on the Christmas Eve table. While fried carp is a common choice, this method can be high in calories and not the healthiest option. As such, it's worth exploring other less fatty, more nutritious recipes.
As Christmas approaches, it's time to think about the menu for the Christmas Eve spread. While fried carp is a traditional choice, it might be worth considering alternatives, especially for those who prefer to steer clear of deep-fried foods. Dishes like cod in aromatic sauce or baked salmon are delightful options that can still uphold the festive atmosphere healthily.
Eating healthier with fish dishes during Christmas
Fish dishes are a healthy and valuable part of our diet. However, deep-frying these ingredients can increase their caloric content and reduce their taste quality. Let's explore healthier and less caloric fish preparation methods.
Oven-baking is arguably the healthiest way to prepare fish. It maintains the fish's natural taste, aroma and has fewer calories than its fried counterpart.
Oven-baking fish is a simple task, requiring only a few ingredients: fish, salt, pepper, and oil. Rinse and pat dry the fish, then rub in some salt and pepper. Spread a bit of oil at the bottom of an ovenproof dish, add the fish, and bake in a preheated oven at 392 degrees F for about 30 minutes.
Here are a couple of oven-baked fish recipe ideas:
- A hint of lemon with Salmon: Rub a salmon fillet with lemon juice, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Lay a bit of butter at the bottom of an ovenproof dish and place your seasoned salmon on it. Bake in an oven preheated to 392 degrees F for roughly 45 minutes.
- Pepper-sauced Cod: Season cod fillets with salt, pepper, and a clove of crushed garlic. In a pan with heated olive oil, glaze some finely chopped onion, add finely chopped pepper, and pour in some broth. Allow your seasoned cod fillets to cook in the sauce for about 10 minutes.
Simmer your fish for a healthy alternative to baking
Simmering a fish only calls for a few ingredients: the fish itself, broth or water, spices, and vegetables. Rinse and pat dry the fish, season with salt, pepper, and other preferred spices. In a thick-bottomed pot, heat some oil and sauté onion or garlic. Add the seasoned fish and cover with broth or water. Simmer for roughly 20 minutes.
Below are some recipe ideas for simmered fish:
- Carp in tomato sauce: Season carp fillets with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices. Once done, heat some oil in a thick-bottomed pot and sauté some onion. Add canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, and oregano. Let carp fillets simmer in the sauce for approximately 30 minutes.
- Salmon trout with vegetables: Season salmon trout fillets with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Heat some oil in a thick-bottomed pot, sauté some onion and carrot. Add salmon trout fillets and pepper. Pour broth or water over the entire mixture and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
The aforementioned recipes are not just easy to prepare but are fitting for the festive table as well. Fish dishes cooked with these methods are healthy, easier to digest, and less caloric than fried ones.
