Pescado Cordobés Asado
History and Origin of Pescado Cordobés Asado
Pescado Cordobés Asado, or Grilled Cordoban Fish, hails from Córdoba, a region in Argentina known for its rich cultural heritage and culinary diversity. This dish reflects a blend of Spanish influences with the local Argentinian flavors, showcasing the importance of grilling as a cooking technique in Argentine cuisine. Traditionally, this dish is prepared using fresh river fish locally sourced from the rivers traversing Córdoba, offering a unique taste that embodies the area's essence.
Ingredients
- Fresh Fish - 2 pounds trout or catfish
- Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
- Lemon - 1, juiced and zested
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Paprika - 2 teaspoons
- Parsley - a handful, chopped
- White Wine - 1/2 cup
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
Preparation
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the fresh fish, ensuring all scales and bones are removed. Pat the fish dry with a paper towel. Combine olive oil, juice and zest from the lemon, minced garlic, paprika, chopped parsley, white wine, salt, and black pepper in a bowl to create a marinade. Place the fish in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the fish is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Instructions
Grilling the Fish
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the fish from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off; reserve the marinade. Lightly oil the grill grates and place the fish on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fish, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. While grilling, baste the fish occasionally with the reserved marinade to enhance the flavor.
Checking Doneness
It is crucial to monitor the cooking time carefully. If in doubt, refer to a cooking timer or probe the thickest part of the fish with a fork; it should be opaque and flake easily. Erring on the side of slightly undercooking can ensure a tender and juicy texture, as the fish will continue to cook with residual heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pescado Cordobés Asado garnished with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Pair it with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish. Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine to enhance the dining experience.
Conclusion
Pescado Cordobés Asado embodies the fusion of Argentine grilling tradition with the fresh flavors of river fish from Córdoba. Its simple preparation and profound taste make it a staple in any seafood lover's repertoire. From its intriguing history to the final enjoyable bite, this dish is sure to captivate both your palate and your heart.