This delicious dish features monkfish (or sea devil), or морски дявол in Bulgarian, pan-seared and served with cremini mushrooms, crispy potato chips, and a medley of herbs and spices. Fresh red peppers, garlic, and parsley enhance the flavors, making this a perfect, hearty meal.
Preparation Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients (for four people)
- 600g monkfish fillets (cut into pieces)
- 200g cremini mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 large potatoes (thinly sliced into chips)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (circa 45ml)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed herbs (thyme, rosemary, or fresh herbs of your choice)
- red chilies (optional)
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Arrange the potato slices on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until crispy and golden.
Step 2: Cook the Monkfish
Heat a pan over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the monkfish pieces with salt and black pepper, and if desired – with red chilies for extra heat. Cook the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the garlic and red peppers for 2-3 minutes, then add the sliced mushrooms. Season with salt, pepper, and mixed herbs, and cook until the mushrooms are tender.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Place the crispy potato chips on a plate. Add the monkfish and sautéed vegetables on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a lemon wedge on the side for extra freshness.
Tips and Tricks
- For a crispier texture on your potato chips, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before frying.
- Sear the monkfish on a hot pan to lock in moisture and develop a golden crust.
- Use fresh garlic and parsley to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for a light and healthy meal.
Wine Pairing
For this rich and flavorful dish, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the delicate taste of monkfish. For a Bulgarian option, try Tamyanka or Misket, which complement the fresh herbs and vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 300 mg
About the Dish
This dish celebrates the delicate flavor of monkfish paired with earthy cremini mushrooms and crispy homemade potato chips. The light seasoning of black pepper, garlic, and fresh parsley allows the natural taste of the fish and vegetables to shine, while the red peppers bring in a subtle sweetness. It’s a simple yet elegant seafood meal, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Cultural Context
Monkfish, known as “морски дявол” (sea devil) in Bulgarian, is popular in coastal regions for its firm texture and mild flavor, often compared to lobster. This recipe reflects a Mediterranean influence, emphasizing fresh herbs and vegetables. Mushrooms and potatoes add a hearty element, making it a well-balanced meal that reflects the practical and flavorful approach in many European seafood dishes.
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