Many people think that baking fish is difficult, especially if you’re looking for moist, tasty results. Happily, preparing fish by baking couldn’t be easier. The basics for baking a flaky, moist fish are the same no matter the recipe. Locate the freshest fish possible for the best result. The general rule is to measure the thickest part of the fish and allow 10 minutes baking time per inch. Fillets average 15 minutes baking time, while fish steaks will need between 10-15 minutes.
You must also take into consideration the type of fish you are cooking. Different fish varieties need special consideration when it comes to baking. Cod or haddock are lean fish which don’t contain much fat and will need a bit of effort to ensure the fish doesn’t dry out. These fish are best baked with a small amount of liquid which could be water, wine, butter, milk, lemon, lime or orange juice, or olive and canola oil. Herbs can be used to add flavor and aroma and consider using tomatoes or chopped vegetables for variety.
Coating the fish with flour or breadcrumbs also protects the flesh from drying as it bakes. Wrapping the fish in foil keeps the moisture in (quite similar to steaming) and also helps cut down on cleaning time. Spray the foil with olive oil spray, place the fish on the foil and season to taste. Fold the sides around the fish and seal. Cook the fish for the calculated time. When baking a whole fish in foil, be sure it has been properly cleaned, scaled and gutted. And remember: cooking a whole fish takes longer than a piece only – plan on 40-50 minutes cooking time.
Baked Fish with Creamy Citrus Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Fish fillets (I used salmon)
- 2 teaspoons Olive oil
- ⅛ teaspoon Curry powder
- ¼ cup Sour Cream
- 2 tablespoon Lime juice
- ½ teaspoon Curry powder
- ¼ teaspoon Cumin
- 2 tablespoons Orange Marmalade
Arrange the fish fillets in baking dish that has been coated with a non-stick spray or lined with aluminum foil. Sprinkle the fillets with salt, pepper and ⅛ teaspoon curry powder. Drizzle the olive oil over fish and bake at 375 degrees for 10 – 12 minutes or until fish flakes easily.
Combine remaining ingredients in small saucepan and cook over medium low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through but not boiling.
Savor! West Virginia 