Elevate your cooking game with this stunning recipe for Herb-Infused Fish with Pickled Beetroot and Zaza Sauce. This dish combines fresh, brined fish confited in herb-infused oil, tangy pickled beetroot, and a creamy zaza mustard sauce, all tied together with a garnish of egg vinaigrette for texture and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or crafting a show-stopping New Year’s menu, this plate offers sophistication, bold flavors, and an unforgettable presentation.
Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide and create a dish that will dazzle your guests and your taste buds!
What Makes This Dish Special?
1. Herb-Infused Confit Fish: Gently cooked in a blend of herbs and zaza-infused oil, the fish is tender, aromatic, and full of flavor.
2. Pickled Beetroot: Adds a bright, tangy contrast to the richness of the fish and sauce.
3. Zaza Mustard Sauce: A creamy, silky sauce infused with zaza to elevate the dish with a modern twist.
4. Egg Vinaigrette: Combines hard-boiled eggs, capers, dill, and horseradish for a sharp and savory topping that completes the plate.
Ingredients
For the Fish:
• 2 fresh fillets of white fish (such as cod, haddock, or halibut)
• 1 tbsp salt (for brining)
• 500ml neutral oil (for confiting)
• Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, bay leaves)
• 1–2 tbsp zaza (infused or finely ground)
For the Pickled Beetroot:
• 1 large beetroot (thinly sliced)
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 3 tbsp white vinegar
• 100ml water
For the Egg Vinaigrette:
• 2 hard-boiled eggs (finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp capers (chopped)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp grated horseradish
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
For the Zaza Mustard Sauce:
• 50g butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 200ml milk
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1–2 tsp zaza butter or zaza oil
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Brine the Fish
Brining the fish ensures it stays tender and flavorful during cooking.
1. Dissolve 1 tbsp salt in 500ml of water.
2. Submerge the fish fillets in the brine and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.
3. After brining, pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and let them rest uncovered in the fridge overnight. This step helps develop the texture and concentrates the flavors.
Step 2: Pickle the Beetroot
The pickled beetroot adds a bright, tangy element that balances the richness of the fish and sauce.
1. In a small saucepan, combine:
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 3 tbsp white vinegar
• 100ml water
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
3. Add the thinly sliced beetroot to the saucepan and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let the beetroot cool in the pickling liquid. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.
Step 3: Make the Egg Vinaigrette
This savory topping is the perfect garnish for the dish.
1. In a bowl, combine:
• 2 finely chopped hard-boiled eggs
• 1 tbsp capers (chopped)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp grated horseradish
• Juice of 1 lemon
• A pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine and adjust the seasoning to taste. Set aside.
Step 4: Confit the Fish
Confit is a gentle cooking method that keeps the fish tender and flavorful.
1. Heat 500ml neutral oil in a saucepan over low heat. Add fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves to the oil for flavor.
2. Stir in 1–2 tbsp zaza (either infused oil or finely ground).
3. Once the oil is warm but not bubbling (around 90–100°C / 194–212°F), submerge the fish fillets in the oil.
4. Cook gently for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily. Remove from the oil and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Zaza Mustard Sauce
This creamy mustard sauce ties all the components together with its rich, tangy flavor and subtle herbal notes.
1. In a saucepan, melt 50g butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tbsp flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
2. Gradually whisk in 200ml milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Once the sauce thickens, stir in:
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1–2 tsp zaza butter or zaza oil.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Now it’s time to assemble this stunning dish!
1. On each plate, arrange a few slices of pickled beetroot as the base layer.
2. Place a piece of confited fish on top of the beetroot.
3. Garnish with a spoonful of the egg vinaigrette for texture and sharpness.
4. Generously mask the fish with the zaza mustard sauce, letting it drizzle slightly onto the plate.
5. Finish with fresh herbs or microgreens for a touch of color and elegance.
Serving Suggestion: Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing accompaniment.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Balanced Flavors: The combination of rich confited fish, tangy pickled beetroot, creamy mustard sauce, and savory egg vinaigrette creates a perfect harmony of flavors.
2. Elegant Presentation: This dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious, making it ideal for special occasions.
3. Infused Twist: The subtle herbal notes from the zaza-infused oil and mustard sauce add a modern, creative touch to a classic gourmet plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without zaza?
Of course! Simply omit the zaza from the infused oil and mustard sauce. The dish will still be delicious with the other components.
What type of fish works best for this recipe?
White fish like cod, haddock, halibut, or sea bass works beautifully. Their mild flavor allows the other elements of the dish to shine.
How far in advance can I prepare this dish?
• The pickled beetroot and egg vinaigrette can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
• Brine the fish the day before to save time.
• Cook the fish and assemble the dish just before serving for best results.
This Herb-Infused Fish with Pickled Beetroot and Zaza Sauce is a culinary masterpiece that brings together elegance, flavor, and a touch of modern creativity. Whether you’re serving it for New Year’s Eve, a dinner party, or a romantic meal, this dish is sure to impress. With its luxurious layers and vibrant presentation, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and create a dish that’s truly unforgettable. Cheers to good eats and great vibes! 🐟✨
🎥 For a step-by-step demonstration, check out our Instagram video here featuring our chefs in action!
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Skål!