Dutch Stewed Fish. Recipe

Dutch Stewed Fish is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed in the Netherlands for centuries. It is a flavorful and hearty recipe that combines tender fish with a rich and tangy tomato-based sauce. The origins of this dish can be traced back to the coastal regions of the Netherlands, where fish has always been an important part of the local cuisine.

One interesting fact about Dutch Stewed Fish is that it is often made with freshwater fish such as eel, pike, or perch. This is because the Netherlands has a lot of inland waterways and lakes, which are home to these types of fish. However, you can also use other whitefish varieties such as cod or haddock for this recipe.

To start preparing this delicious dish, you will need to gather the following ingredients:

- 1 ½ pounds of fish fillets (eel, pike, perch, or any whitefish variety)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of tomato puree
- 1 cup of fish or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Now, let's dive into the recipe:

1. Begin by seasoning the fish fillets with salt and pepper and lightly dust them with flour. This will help to thicken the sauce later on.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and translucent.

3. Once the onions and garlic are cooked, add the tomato puree to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it cook for a couple of minutes.

4. Slowly pour in the fish or vegetable broth and give it a gentle stir. Add the bay leaf, thyme, sugar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Carefully place the seasoned fish fillets into the skillet. Make sure they are fully submerged in the sauce. If necessary, you can gently spoon some of the sauce over the fish to ensure they are evenly coated.

6. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the fish simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and flake easily with a fork.

7. Once the fish is cooked, remove the bay leaf from the skillet. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the fish from the skillet and continue simmering the sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency.

8. To serve Dutch Stewed Fish, transfer the fish fillets to a serving plate and spoon the sauce generously over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of freshness and color.

Dutch Stewed Fish is traditionally served with boiled potatoes and accompanied by pickled vegetables such as beets or onions. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that showcases the flavors of the sea and the vibrant culinary heritage of the Netherlands.

If you are looking for similar recipes, there are several other Dutch dishes that incorporate fish as well. One popular dish is called Kibbeling, which consists of bite-sized fried fish nuggets seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. Another dish is Haring, which is a raw herring fillet traditionally served with pickles and onions as a street food snack.

Now that you have the recipe and some additional information about Dutch Stewed Fish, it's time to gather your ingredients and give it a try. Enjoy the journey of exploring new flavors and embracing the rich cultural history that comes with each dish!

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