Mallorcan Fish: Recipes from the Sea to Your Table

Mallorcan cuisine is renowned for its rich combination of Mediterranean flavors, where the sea and the garden come together in delicious and nutritious dishes. One of the most iconic dishes is Mallorcan-style fish, a traditional recipe that stands out for its simplicity and fresh ingredients. Below, we offer a detailed guide to preparing this exquisite dish at home, based on the traditional recipe.

Ingredients

To prepare Mallorcan-style fish for 3 people, you will need:

• Fish: 6 slices of hake (you can also use hake or dentex, depending on availability).
• 1 bag of chopped chard (approximately 300-400 g).
• 1 or 2 bunches of spring onions (including the green part).
• 1 or 2 leeks (only the white part).
• 6 or 7 large garlic cloves.
• 1 or 2 large onions.
• 6 or 7 large potatoes.
• 1 or 2 Large salad tomatoes.
• 100 g pine nuts.
• Extra virgin olive oil.
• Ground black pepper to taste.
• Ground paprika to taste.
• Salt to taste.

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the vegetables

1. Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, place the chopped chard, chopped spring onions (including the green part), chopped leeks (only the white part), and finely chopped garlic.
2. Marinate: Add extra virgin olive oil, ground black pepper, paprika, and salt to taste to the bowl. Mix all the ingredients well and let it marinate for about an hour to allow the vegetables to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the base of the dish

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices. Wash and dry them well.
3. Assemble the base: In a baking dish previously greased with olive oil, place the potato slices in an even layer. Add salt to taste.
4. Add the onion: Peel the onions and cut them into thin julienne strips. Distribute them over the potatoes, covering them completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Add the fish and marinated vegetables

1. Place the fish: Place the hake slices on the bed of potatoes and onions, making sure they are evenly distributed.
2. Add the pine nuts: Add the pine nuts to the marinated vegetable mixture and stir well to combine.
3. Cover with vegetables: Pour the marinated vegetable and pine nut mixture over the fish, covering it completely.

Step 4: Garnish with tomato and bake

1. Prepare the tomato: Wash the tomatoes and cut them into thin slices.
2. Garnish: Place the tomato slices on top of the vegetable layer, decorating the surface. of the dish.
3. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and cook for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the fish is cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on the oven, so it’s recommended to check the doneness after 30 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

1. Rest: Once cooking is complete, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve: Serve the Mallorcan-style fish hot, accompanied by the vegetables and potatoes. This dish is ideal to enjoy with a good slice of Mallorcan bread and a local white wine.

Additional Tips

• Variety of Fish: Although the traditional recipe calls for dentex, hake is an excellent alternative due to its mild flavor and firm texture.
• Nuts: Pine nuts add a crunchy touch and a distinctive flavor to the dish. If you like, you can also add some raisins for a sweet contrast.
• Adjusting Seasoning: Adjust the amounts of salt, pepper, and paprika according to your personal preference.
• Side Dish: This dish is perfectly complemented by a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Mallorcan fish is a recipe that reflects the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, combining fresh, natural ingredients in a dish full of flavor and tradition. By following these steps, you can enjoy an authentic Mallorcan culinary experience at home.

Bon profit!