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Freshly Caught Mixed Fried Fish

17/11/2023

Mixed fried fish is a classic in Italian cuisine, an irresistible dish often found in seaside locations. What makes this recipe special is the use of very fresh fish and seafood, along with a light batter that enhances the flavor without weighing it down. Here’s the recipe for freshly caught mixed fried fish.

Ingredients

  • 300 grams of cleaned squid
  • 300 grams of peeled shrimps
  • 200 grams of little fish (such as anchovies or sardines) cleaned
  • Soft wheat flour as needed for breading
  • Rice flour as needed for breading (optional for a crunchier fry)
  • Fine salt as needed
  • Ground black pepper as needed
  • Peanut oil or other high smoke point oil for frying

Preparation

  1. Begin by cleaning the fish well: cut the squid into rings, shell the shrimp (leaving or removing the tail according to preference), and the little fish should be gutted and headless. Dry the fish thoroughly with paper towels.

  2. Heat plenty of oil in a deep pan or a deep fryer, reaching a temperature of about 180 °C (356 °F).

  3. Meanwhile, put the salt, pepper, and flour (you can use only soft wheat flour or a mix with rice flour) in a large bowl or a food bag. Add the fish and shake well to coat each piece evenly.

  4. When the oil has reached the correct temperature, start frying the fish in small batches so as not to lower the temperature of the oil too much. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan.

  5. Once the pieces of fish are golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on kitchen paper to remove excess oil.

  6. Serve the mixed fry hot, optionally with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fine salt.

Curiosity

The tradition of mixed fried fish has deep roots in the coastal cultures of Italy, and each region has its variants. For example, in Liguria, it’s common to also add battered vegetables, such as zucchinis and artichokes, to accompany the seafood variety.

Remember, for optimal results, the fish should be as fresh as possible. This recipe can be personalized by adding or substituting fish according to availability and preference.

Freshly Caught Mixed Fried Fish