Shpata me Salce Domatesh
Fish in Tomato Sauce
A simple yet flavorful dish of fish fillets simmered in a rich tomato sauce, often seasoned with garlic, herbs, and sometimes a touch of spice. This preparation highlights the versatility of fish in Kosovar cuisine, offering a light yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed with various sides.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g White fish fillets (e.g., cod, sea bass)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 400 g Canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 100 ml Water or fish broth
- 1 tsp Dried parsley
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes(optional, for a little heat)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Drying the fish helps it to sear better. - 2
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Cook until the onions are translucent. - 3
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic. - 4
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water (or broth), dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Mix well to combine all ingredients. - 5
Gently place the seasoned fish fillets into the simmering tomato sauce. Ensure they are mostly submerged.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. - 6
Cover the skillet and let the fish cook in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
💡 Tip: Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fish fillets. - 7
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
💡 Tip: Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired. - 8
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
💡 Tip: Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Serve this dish with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
- ✓It also pairs well with rice or boiled potatoes.
- ✓For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add olives or capers to the tomato sauce for extra flavor.
- Use different types of fish, such as salmon or trout.