How to Make Turkish Fish and Tomato Sauce

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients, and one of the delightful dishes that embody this culinary tradition is fish cooked in a savory tomato sauce. This recipe blends the freshness of fish with the acidity of tomatoes and aromatic spices, creating a delightful and satisfying meal. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make Turkish fish and tomato sauce.

Ingredients

  • 2 whole fish (such as sea bass or bream), cleaned and scaled
  • 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (or use canned tomatoes)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Preparing the Fish

1. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both the inside and outside of the fish with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.

Making the Tomato Sauce

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften.

4. Add the chopped tomatoes, paprika, and cumin to the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Combining Fish and Sauce

5. Once the sauce is ready, carefully place the marinated fish into the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the top to coat the fish. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serving

6. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Serve the fish hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.

Conclusion

This Turkish fish and tomato sauce recipe is not only simple but also a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Turkish culinary traditions. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the taste of Turkey right in your kitchen!