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Colombian Fish Grill

Serves 4 to 6 Entree seafood, Fish

Colombian Fish Grill

Colombian Fish Grill is a beloved staple at home tables across Colombia, capturing the spirit of communal dining with its straightforward preparation and flavorful results. Cooked with an intuitive touch, this dish is a celebration of the everyday, where the salt is measured by feel and the olive oil flows generously, ensuring the fish remains moist and flavorful. It's a dish meant for sharing, bringing family and friends together around the table.

The grilled fish should deliver a perfect balance of fresh lemon zest, aromatic herbs, and a hint of the sea, with the olive oil enhancing the natural richness of the fish. Served simply, it invites everyone to dig in and savor each bite, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Colombian home cooking.

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 and impurities. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the skin will crisp up nicely during cooking. This step is crucial as excess moisture can prevent the skin from achieving a desirable texture.
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or grill pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add a handful of your chosen fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, to the pan. Allow the herbs to infuse the oil with their aroma for about 30 seconds, ensuring the oil is fragrant but the herbs do not burn.
  3. Season the fish generously with fine sea salt and black pepper on both sides, ensuring even coverage. Carefully place the fish into the pan, ensuring they lay flat and do not overlap. This will help them cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
  4. Cook the fish for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, until the skin is crisp and releases easily from the pan. Flip the fish gently using a spatula, and continue cooking on the other side. The fish is done when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
  5. Once cooked, remove the fish from the pan and place them on a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to enhance the flavors and add a bright, tangy finish. Taste a small piece to check for seasoning, adding more salt if necessary, before serving immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Cover of Authentic Colombian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Colombian Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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