Smoked Brekši with Garlic and Herbs

Smoked brekši is a flavorful and aromatic dish that's perfect for any occasion. This traditional recipe uses a blend of garlic and natural wood smoke to create an irresistible aroma and flavor. The process involves slow cooking the fish in a specially prepared smoker, which allows the flavors to fully develop. This dish is renowned for its succulent texture and rich taste. The combination of garlic, salt, and a hint of maple smoke gives the brekši a unique and delightful twist. Preparing this recipe requires some time and patience, but the end result is a delicious and memorable dish. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking to try something new, smoked brekši is sure to impress your taste buds. Pair it with your favorite side dishes or a simple salad to complete the meal. Enjoy every bite of this exquisite culinary experience!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Brekši - 2 large fish
• Garlic - 2 cloves

Spices and Additional

• Salt - 1 tablespoon
• Vegetable Oil - 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time

Total Time: 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Smoker: Begin by thoroughly heating the smoker until the chamber is filled with glowing red coals. This ensures a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process.
2. Oil the Grates: Use vegetable oil to grease the smoker grates. This prevents the fish from sticking and enhances the flavor.
3. Prepare the Fish: Press garlic cloves through a garlic press directly onto the brekši. Spread it evenly across the entire fish for even seasoning.
4. Place the Fish: Lay the prepared fish onto the greased smoker grates.
5. Monitor the Temperature: With the smoker reaching high temperatures, ventilate it to around 100 degrees Celsius to prevent overheating. Close the door and adjust the vents to stabilize the heat.
6. Add the Wood: Introduce a few small pieces of dry maple wood to the coals for a gentle, aromatic smoke.
7. Start Smoking: Maintain the temperature between 80-90 degrees Celsius. Smoke the fish for approximately 1.5 hours, adjusting based on the size of the fish.
8. Check the Fish: Fish readiness can be ascertained by its color. A rich, golden hue indicates that the brekši is smoked perfectly.
9. Enhance Flavor: When 15 minutes remain, remove the fish and sprinkle evenly with salt. Return it swiftly to the smoker to allow the salt to melt and infuse the fish.
10. Final Steps: Let the brekši rest for a few minutes outside the smoker. This step helps solidify its flavors and ensures moistness.

Tips

• Use the freshest fish available for optimum taste.
• Adjust smoking time based on the size and thickness of the fish.
• Monitor the temperature closely to prevent over-smoking.

Nutrition

• Calories: 210 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

Variations

• Use lemon juice and dill for a fresh twist.
• Substitute maple wood with applewood for a sweeter smoke flavor.
• For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic paste.

Serving Suggestions

• Complement the dish with a light garden salad or roasted vegetables.
• Serve with crusty bread or a side of creamy mashed potatoes.
• A chilled white wine or light beer pairs well with smoked fish.

Best Places

1. The Smokehouse Deli - Known for its artisan smoked meats and fish. Location: 23 High Street, London, UK.
2. Smoky Joe's - A rustic eatery known for its authentic smoked dishes. Location: 45 Main St, New York City, USA.
3. Fish and Fire - Famous for fish lovers and special seafood. Location: 88 Ocean Ave, Sydney, Australia.
4. Nordic Smokehouse - Scandinavia-inspired smoked dishes in a cozy spot. Location: 9 Viking St, Stockholm, Sweden.
5. La Cueva del Sabor - A blend of traditional and contemporary smoke flavors. Location: 12 Calle del Mar, Madrid, Spain.
6. Pacific Breeze’s Smokehouse - Offers Pacific-style smoked seafood. Location: 5 Sunset Blvd, Honolulu, Hawaii.
7. Smoked Pride - Renowned for its rich flavor blends and artisan approach. Location: 27 Grand Ave, Toronto, Canada.
8. Rauch Haus - German-style smoked dishes with excellence all-around. Location: 14 Berliner Str, Berlin, Germany.
9. Smokey Fancy - Offers gourmet smoked foods in a charming atmosphere. Location: 32 Rue de Lyon, Paris, France.
10. Ocean's Ember - Popular for its innovative approach to smoked seafood. Location: 54 Marine Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.