Stuffed Fish is essentially a whole dressed fish which is stuffed or filled with dressing or stuffing before it is cooked. All over the world, there are many different ways, methods and recipes to cook this fish and it a highly popular food item in coastal regions and in places where fish is available in plenty.
Origin of Stuffed Fish Recipe
Considering the fact that the fish is cooked and consumed in many regions all over the world, it is very difficult to trace the exact origin of the dish. As fish is a seafood, many believe that the origin of the dish was in a coastal region and while this makes sense, there is no information as to where the preparation was invented.
Over the years, the dish has evolved and today, there are over a hundred different recipes for the dish and various ways to cook and serve it.
Ingredients and Method of Preparation: Stuffed Fish Recipe
The fish used for the preparation of Stuffed Fish as well as the ingredients used for the filling depend on the region in which the dish is being prepared. Based on individual preferences and availability, the fish is selected. The important thing is that the fish should be fresh and meaty as this greatly affects the taste of the dish. Some of the most popular and widely used fish to prepare the dish are Catfish, Swordfish, Flounder, Halibut, Tilapia and Salmon.
For the stuffing, everything from vegetables to seafood is used. Based on the recipe being followed, stuffing ingredients are selected and prepared as per directions and instructions shared in the recipe. Onions, tomatoes, parsley, celery, shrimps, crabs, oysters, carrots and mushrooms are some of the most commonly used ingredients for stuffing. One variant of the dish has chopped apples as the main ingredient.
The fish is cleaned, seasoned with the required seasoning agents and cooked whole. A slit in the fish is made to allow the filling to be stuffed. Filling is prepared separately and the ingredients used depend on the recipe being followed. The Stuffed Fish can be steamed, fried, baked or grilled.
Serving and Eating Stuffed Fish Dish
The preparation is generally served as a main dish of a major lunch or dinner meal. Garnishing depends on the recipe being followed. While the dish is generally served with rice and/or bread, some people prefer to eat it all by itself. Due to the way that it is prepared, Stuffed Fish is considered a wholesome meal and can be consumed without any accompaniments.