Smoked Fish with Herb Marinade

This recipe offers a delightful way to prepare smoked fish infused with a savory herb marinade. It's a dish that brings together the rich, smoky flavors of the fish with a burst of freshness from the dill and garlic-infused butter. The preparation might require some patience, but the outcome is a perfectly smoked, tender fish that is sure to impress your guests. With the correct balance of salt, butter, and fresh herbs, this dish becomes a true culinary delight. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps in keeping the fish moist during the smoking process. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors of the fish to shine without being overpowered. It's an excellent option for weekend gatherings or special occasions. While the smoking time varies based on the size of the fish, the result is always worth the wait. Pair it with some fresh greens or a light side, and you have a wholesome meal ready to serve.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • Fish (Breksi)
  • Oil

Herb Marinade for the Fish:

  • 50-100 g butter
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 bunch dill
  • Salt to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 240 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Melt the Butter: Begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
  2. Prepare the Herbs: Chop the dill finely. You can use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to ensure even results.
  3. Add Garlic and Dill: Peel and mince the garlic cloves. Add the chopped dill and minced garlic to the melted butter.
  4. Season the Marinade: Stir in salt to taste, and mix until the salt is fully dissolved in the butter.
  5. Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker and lightly grease the heated smoker racks using vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Marinate the Fish: Rub the prepared herb marinade generously onto the fish, ensuring each side is covered for maximum flavor.
  7. Optional Rest: If desired, allow the fish to rest for about half an hour to let the flavors meld. However, you can also proceed to smoking immediately.
  8. Smoke the Fish: Place the fish in the smoker. The smoking time depends on the size of the fish and may require frequent checks.
  9. Monitor Cooking: Keep an eye on the fish, ensuring it does not dry out. The flesh should be tender and flaky when done.
  10. Prepare for Serving: Once fully smoked, remove the fish from the smoker and let it rest briefly before serving.

Tips

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest dill and garlic for the best flavor.
  • Smoke Control: Maintain a consistent temperature in the smoker for even cooking.
  • Wood Chips: Experiment with different wood chips for unique flavors, such as applewood or hickory.

Nutritions

  • Calories: 320 per serving
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fats: 23g
  • Carbs: 2g

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the herb butter for a spicy twist.
  • Citrus Infusion: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish just before serving for a zesty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the smoked fish with a side of fresh mixed greens or a tangy cucumber salad.
  • Garnish with extra dill and lemon wedges for added freshness and aroma.

Best Places

  • Fish House - A charming spot known for their expertly smoked seafood dishes. Location: 22 Market Street, San Francisco, USA.
  • Sea Smoke - Offers unique flavor profiles with a variety of wood chips. Location: 45 Ocean Drive, Sydney, Australia.
  • The Smoked Fish Shack - Delight in artisanal smoked fish preparations. Location: 10 Harbour Road, Cape Town, South Africa.
  • Nordic Smokehouse - Specializing in Scandinavian-style smoked fish. Location: 18 Viking Way, Stockholm, Sweden.
  • Smoker's Corner - Known for mouth-watering smoked dishes and sides. Location: 33 Fisherman's Pier, Dublin, Ireland.
  • Deep Smoke Cafe - A cozy café with a focus on hearty smoked snacks. Location: 4 Bay Lane, Vancouver, Canada.
  • Ocean Smokes - Famed for their extensive seafood menu. Location: 55 Sea Avenue, Auckland, New Zealand.
  • Smoked Delights - Offers an array of smoked seafood options. Location: 77 Dockyard Street, London, UK.
  • Harbour Flavors - Perfect for enjoying smoked dishes by the sea. Location: 12 Wave Road, Honolulu, USA.
  • The Smoke Zone - Amazing platter options with a variety of smoked fish. Location: 6 Coastal Drive, Lisbon, Portugal.