In the Mexican state of Veracruz, a local recipe calls for simmering fish in a rich sauce of garlic, tomatoes, capers, green olives, and chiles. This version uses grouper, but any firm white-fleshed fish will do.
Ingredients
4 grouper fillets or steaks, each about 5 ounces (155 g) and about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1-1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tomatoes, peeled and seeded, then diced (see note below)
5 large pimiento-stuffed green olives, sliced
1 tablespoon capers, rinsed
1 jalapeño chile, seeded and cut into 1-inch (2.5-cm) julienne
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Instructions
1. Sprinkle the grouper steaks on both sides with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/8 teaspoon of the pepper. In a large, nonstick frying pan, heat 1-1/2 teaspoons of the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the fish to the pan and sear on both sides until lightly browned, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pan. Add the onion and sauté until soft and lightly golden, about 6 minutes. Add the garlic and saute until softened, about 1 minute. Add the tomatoes, olives, capers, and jalapeño and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Stir in the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Return the fish to the pan, cover, and simmer until the fish is opaque throughout when tested with the tip of a knife, 6-8 minutes.
3. Transfer the grouper steaks to warmed individual plates. Stir the lime juice into the vegetables and pan juices and spoon some sauce over each steak. Serve immediately.
Note: For testing, we used one carton of grape tomatoes, halved, or about 2 cups.
From The New Mayo Clinic Cookbook: Eating Well for Better Health, Second Edition (Time Home Entertainment, 2012). Copyright © 2012 Time Home Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.
Each week, The Splendid Table brings you stories that expand your world view, inspire you to try something new, and show how food connects us all. We rely on your generous support. For as little as $5 a month, you can have a lasting impact on The Splendid Table. And, when you donate, you’ll join a community of like-minded individuals who love good food, good conversation, and kitchen companionship. Show your love for The Splendid Table with a gift today.
Thank you for your support.
Donate today for as little as $5.00 a month. Your gift only takes a few minutes and has a lasting impact on The Splendid Table and you'll be welcomed into The Splendid Table Co-op.