Exquisite Iraqi Carp with Lemon and Turmeric Infusion
Embark on a culinary journey with this Iraqi dish, a celebration of fresh and zesty flavors, brought to life with a bold and aromatic Middle Eastern flair. This dish captures the essence of Iraq’s rich culinary heritage, with a delicate balance of flavors that’s sure to delight. Fresh carp, a sensational staple of Iraqi cuisine, marries the zesty brilliance of lemon and the warm, earthy tones of turmeric, creating a dish that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying. Perfect for an evening to impress, this carp dish is a feast for the senses, with a rich aromatic profile and a satisfying taste of the Middle Eastern culinary tradition.
Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert
Preparation Time: 20 minutes, Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- Fresh carp: 400 grams
- Fresh lemon: 1, juiced
- Onion: 1, thinly sliced
- Tomatoes: 2, sliced
- Olive oil: 30 ml
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Parsley: a few sprigs, chopped
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C. Line a baking dish with a thin layer of olive oil.
- Rinse the carp and dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, black pepper, and turmeric, ensuring an even coat.
- Layer the baking dish with sliced onions and tomatoes. Scatter with thyme for an aromatic base.
- Place the carp on the bed of onions and tomatoes, and drizzle with the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and fresh parsley over the carp for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the carp to develop a crisp, slightly golden crust.
- Once cooked, allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For an extra zest, serve with a lemon wedge on the side.
- Use a fish thermometer to ensure the carp is cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Pair this dish with a side of warm, crusty bread to mop up the delicious juices.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 180 calories / 754 kJ | 360 calories / 1508 kJ |
| Fat | 10g | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 10g |
| Sugars | 2g | 4g |
| Proteins | 18g | 36g |
| Salt | 1g | 2g |
