| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 382 | 20g | 3g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 40g | 1.1g |
Why I Love Greek Steamed Fish
Stepping from the narrow alleyways and cobblestoned streets of New York City to my cozy kitchen, I find inspiration in every bowl, skillet, and pot. Each recipe offers an opportunity to pay homage to my city’s rich cultural melting pot, capturing the flavors and essence of our vibrant culinary scene. In today’s venture, we’re whipping up a refreshing Greek dish – Steamed Fish.
Culinary Unity in Diversity
Like all the best dishes, this Steamed Fish recipe transcends borders, embodying a beautiful unity in diversity. Its flavor is a synergy of simple, traditional ingredients that meld together surprisingly well. Seamlessly combining the rustic authenticity of Greek cuisine with the ever-evolving palate of a true New Yorker like myself, it reminds one of a good Broadway play where the individual skills of the actors create a reality much larger than the stage. The beauty of the recipe lies in its simplicity, a testament to the age-old saying that less really is more.
Inspiration Behind The Dish
Renowned Greek chef, Argiro Barbarigou, who has continually infused traditional Greek cuisine with unique modern twists, has always been a source of inspiration for me. They create dishes that are not only visually stunning but also have a marvelously layered flavor-profile. Although this recipe isn’t directly inspired by Argiro, her commitment to the authentic Greek cuisine shines in every ingredient and simmer of this delightful steamed fish recipe.
A Rainbow of Flavors
The utter symbiosis of the fresh white fish fillets, zesty lemons, aromatic herbs, and the delicate texture imparted by the steam cooking, lend this dish its exquisite flavor. The juxtaposition of hearty fish with an uplifting and sharp citrus note, accompanied by the robust nutty kick of olive oil truly mirrors the diversity of my native NYC.
Complementary Dishes
While the Steamed Fish is wholly delectable by itself, you can also pair it with traditional Greek sides such as Tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, or a lightly toasted garlic pita bread to balance out the flavors. Additionally, it pairs splendidly with a glass of crisp white wine. Whether served as the main course for a fancy dinner party or a quiet, intimate weekday dinner at home, this dish is sure to wow your taste buds.
This Steamed Fish recipe is a tribute to both my love for the culinary diversity of New York and the authentic, hearty flavors of Greek cuisine. So, let’s head to the kitchen, and honor the cultural melting pot that is NYC with this delectable dish.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs white fish fillets
- 2 lemons, juice and zest
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 large pieces of parchment paper
Method
Step One
Clean the fish fillets and pat them dry. Season generously with salt, pepper and the juice and zest of the lemons. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step Two
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion to the pan and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step Three
Add the tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften and release their juices. Add the parsley, dill, white wine, water, and bay leaves to the pan and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step Four
While the tomato mixture is simmering, lay out your pieces of parchment paper. Place a fish fillet on each piece of paper, then spoon the tomato mixture evenly over each fish fillet.
Step Five
Wrap the parchment paper tightly around each fish fillet, making sure to seal the edges well so that the steam will be trapped inside while cooking. Place the parchment packets on a baking sheet.
Step Six
Steam the fish in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked. The fish will be done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Step Seven
Carefully open each steamed fish package (be careful of the hot steam!). Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
