Istanbul Kalkan
Introduction
Istanbul Kalkan is a traditional Turkish dish that hails from the vibrant city of Istanbul. This dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region, combining fresh ingredients with bold flavors. Its name, "Kalkan," means "spiny turbot" in Turkish, highlighting the star ingredient of the dish. Historically, the dish has been enjoyed in coastal areas where fishing is a central part of daily life.
Ingredients
- Spiny Turbot - 1 whole fish
- Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
- Lemon - 2, juiced
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Parsley - 1 bunch, chopped
- Thyme - 1 tablespoon
- Sea Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Potato - 3, sliced
- Onion - 1, sliced
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Turbot
Begin by cleaning the spiny turbot thoroughly, ensuring all scales are removed. Pat the fish dry with paper towels. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
Step 2: Marinating
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
Place the turbot in a baking dish and coat it generously with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables
Arrange sliced potatoes and onions at the bottom of the baking dish around the fish. Drizzle with some additional olive oil and season with sea salt and black pepper.
Cooking Process
Step 4: Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Set a timer for 45 minutes. The foil will help steam the fish and keep it moist.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 200°C (392°F). Bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the turbot skin to crisp up and the vegetables to caramelize slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Carefully transfer the turbot to a serving platter alongside the roasted potatoes and onions. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Tips on Enjoying the Meal
Istanbul Kalkan pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a traditional Turkish rakı. The citrus and herb flavors in the dish complement the beverages well. Consider serving with a green salad and freshly baked bread to soak up the juices.
Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful family dinner, Istanbul Kalkan promises an authentic taste of Turkey that you'll savor with every bite.