Uzbek Fried Fish with Herbs
Baliq Tovuk
A flavorful and aromatic dish featuring pieces of white fish, marinated and then pan-fried until golden and crispy. It's typically seasoned with a generous amount of fresh herbs, giving it a vibrant taste and aroma characteristic of Uzbek cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g White fish fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia, catfish), cut into 2-inch pieces
- 100 g All-purpose flour
- 150 ml Vegetable oil, for frying
- 3 tbsp Fresh dill, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp Fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the fish pieces dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the fish pieces in the seasoned flour, ensuring they are evenly coated.
💡 Tip: Drying the fish well helps the flour adhere better and promotes crispier frying. - 2
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a drop of flour should sizzle immediately), carefully add the floured fish pieces in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
💡 Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy exterior quickly. - 3
Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fish pieces.
💡 Tip: Flipping the fish only once helps to create a better crust. - 4
Remove the fried fish from the skillet and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
💡 Tip: Draining on paper towels prevents the fish from becoming greasy. - 5
In a small bowl, combine the chopped dill, cilantro, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: This herb mixture is added just before serving to maintain freshness. - 6
Arrange the fried fish on a serving platter. Spoon the herb and lemon mixture generously over the hot fish.
💡 Tip: Serving immediately ensures the fish is crispy and the herbs are vibrant.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a neutral-flavored oil like canola or sunflower for frying.
- ✓For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture.
- ✓This dish is best served immediately after preparation.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped green onions to the herb mixture for a mild oniony bite.
- Marinate the fish in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 15-20 minutes before dredging and frying.
- Serve with a side of yogurt-based dipping sauce.