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Brasileiro Fish Grill

Serves 4 to 6 Entree seafood, Fish

Brasileiro Fish Grill

Brasileiro Fish Grill is a staple at Brazilian home tables, a dish that embodies the essence of everyday cooking with its simple yet generous use of ingredients. This recipe captures the way it's prepared in households, where salt is measured by instinct and olive oil flows freely. The fish is grilled to perfection, making it a popular choice for leisurely weekend lunches or casual gatherings.

The dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors—tender, flaky fish infused with the bright notes of lemon and the earthy warmth of herbs. A touch of fine sea salt and black pepper enhances the natural taste, creating a meal that's both satisfying and uncomplicated. It's an invitation to savor each bite, embodying the relaxed and communal spirit of Brazilian dining.

Ingredients

  • 2whole fish
  • 2 tbspolive oil
  • lemon — sliced
  • herbs — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Start by cleaning the 2 whole fish thoroughly under cold running water to remove any scales or debris. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up during grilling. Make three diagonal slashes on each side of the fish to help the flavors penetrate and to ensure even cooking.
  2. In a large skillet or grill pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add a handful of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to infuse the oil with their aroma. Allow the herbs to sizzle for about 30 seconds, releasing their fragrance into the oil.
  3. Carefully place the fish into the pan, ensuring they lie flat and have enough space between them. Cook the fish for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, until the skin is golden brown and the flesh is starting to turn opaque around the edges.
  4. Gently flip the fish using a spatula, being careful not to break the skin. Continue cooking on the other side for another 4-5 minutes. The fish is done when the flesh is opaque all the way through and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
  5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish while still in the pan to add brightness and balance the flavors. Taste a small piece of the fish and add fine sea salt and black pepper to taste, enhancing the natural flavors without overpowering them.
  6. Transfer the fish to a serving platter, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately, encouraging guests to share and enjoy the dish while it is still warm and aromatic.
Cover of Authentic Brazilian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Brazilian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Brazilian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Brazilian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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