Transport Yourself to the French Riviera with Provencal-Style White Fish
Imagine sitting in a charming bistro on the French Riviera, where the scent of the sea mingles with aromatic herbs and fresh fish. Today, I’m taking you right there, to the heart of the Mediterranean France, with a dish that tastes of sunshine and tradition: Provencal-style white fish.
I remember the first time I tasted this delicacy: I was on vacation, and the intense flavor of garlic combined with the aroma of rosemary and thyme immediately won me over. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a sensory journey that tells stories of crystal-clear seas and blooming fields.
Preparing this dish means combining simple yet full-flavored ingredients: earthy mushrooms, sweet onions, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs create a perfect symphony to enhance the delicacy of the white fish. And let’s not forget that special touch of dry white wine! I’ll guide you through each step so you can experience the same culinary enchantment.
Are you ready to roll up your sleeves? Check out the full recipe below to bring this French culinary masterpiece to life in your own kitchen!
Recipe Notes
- EASE: This recipe is a breeze to whip up, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
- MEDITERRANEAN FLAVORS: Fresh and typical Provencal aromas give this dish its delicious taste.
- CRUNCHY TWIST: A final touch of flavorful breadcrumbs adds a satisfying crunch.
- PREPARATION: Clear and detailed steps ensure a perfect result every time.
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: Light and tasty, with only about 350 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients Notes for the Recipe
- Cod: a versatile fish rich in proteins
- Mushrooms: add flavor and substance to the dish
- Onions: bring sweetness and texture to the sauce
- Tomatoes: bring freshness and color to the dish
- Olive Oil: essential for cooking and that Mediterranean flavor
- Dry White Wine: adds acidity and aroma to the dish
- Aromatic Herbs (rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, parsley): enrich the flavor of the cod
- Garlic: gives a distinctive aromatic touch to the dish
- Salt and Pepper: to adjust the savoriness and taste of the dish
Nutritional Aspects
The Provençal Cod is a light and nutritious dish, perfect for a balanced and flavorful diet.
- High in lean protein from cod, great for those muscles.
- Low in saturated fats thanks to the use of olive oil, a friend to the heart.
- Rich in lycopene from tomatoes, a powerful natural antioxidant.
- Provides B vitamins and essential minerals from the fish.
- Low in calories, about 350 Kcal per serving, for a light meal.
- Garlic and onions offer anti-inflammatory properties and improve digestion.
- Aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme add flavor without extra calories.
Recipe for Cod Provençale
Instructions
- Start by cleaning the mushrooms, washing them thoroughly, and slicing them thinly.
- Peel the onions and tomatoes, then slice them into rounds and dice, respectively.
- Finely chop the garlic to release all its aroma.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the mushrooms, onions, chopped garlic, tomatoes, whole rosemary, a few bay leaves, and a pinch of fresh or dried thyme to add flavor to everything.
- Sauté the ingredients for about 10 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.
- Now it's time for the cod: gently place the fillets on the bed of flavored vegetables, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully pour the dry white wine around the fish without submerging it; this will give a slightly acidic note to the dish that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cod.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for another 20 minutes over low heat; the fish should be tender but still firm.
Notes
Variations of the Provencal Cod Recipe
Discover different ways to customize your Provencal Cod!
- Veggie Variations: Add some zucchini or bell peppers for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with basil, oregano, or sage for a different aromatic twist.
- Wine Variations: Try swapping the white wine for red wine for a bolder flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recipe
Find the answers to the most common questions about this delicious dish!
What Can I Substitute for Cod?
You can swap out the cod for other white fish like trout or haddock.
Can I Use Frozen Mushrooms Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, just make sure to thaw and dry them well before using.
How Long Should I Cook the Fish?
Cook the fish for about 20 minutes on low heat, until it’s tender but still firm.
