Zander and Cheese Delight

This Zander and Cheese Delight is a delightful fusion of tender fish and creamy cheese, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Zander fillets are lightly seasoned, pan-seared, and then baked in a cheesy, creamy sauce, resulting in a dish that's rich in flavor and texture. The crispy cheese crust formed on top during baking adds a delightful contrast to the melt-in-your-mouth fish. With the addition of fresh herbs, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also looks exquisite on the table. The harmony of flavors is sure to impress family and guests alike. This recipe is straightforward yet yields impressive results that make it a favorite for both casual dinners and special celebrations. Serve it with your choice of side dish, and you'll have a meal that's sure to please. Perfect for fish lovers looking for a new way to enjoy a classic seafood dish, it also offers the flexibility of being paired with a variety of sides. Treat your loved ones to this scrumptious Zander and Cheese Delight for an unforgettable meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

300 g zander fillets
200 g Russian cheese
250 g sweet cream
1 tbsp flour
Butter for frying
Salt
Pepper
Fresh herbs

Preparation Time

Total time: 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by cutting the zander fillets into small, square pieces, about 3 cm each.
Season the fish pieces with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
Heat a generous amount of butter in a frying pan over medium heat.
Once the butter has melted and started to sizzle, add the fish pieces.
Sear the fish pieces on each side until they are lightly golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Remove the seared fish pieces from the pan and place them in a heat-resistant baking dish, spreading them out evenly on the bottom.
In the same pan, add more butter to use for making the sauce.
Slowly whisk in the flour until it has dissolved completely to ensure no lumps remain.
Gradually pour in the sweet cream, stirring consistently to maintain a smooth texture.
Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a little water, ensuring it's not too thick or runny.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Incorporate 100 g of grated Russian cheese into the sauce, stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is velvety.
Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the fish in the baking dish.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
About 20 minutes into baking, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for an extra cheesy crust.
Once the baking time is complete and the top is golden brown, remove the dish from the oven.
Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for an added pop of flavor and color.
Consider serving this dish with a side of crispy roasted potatoes or fluffy rice.
Enjoy your lovingly prepared Zander and Cheese Delight with family or guests.

Tips

For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
Use fresh zander for the best flavor, but frozen can be used if thawed properly.
Feel free to add garlic or onion powder for extra flavor depth.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
Protein: 45 g
Fats: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g

Variations

Switch out the zander for another white fish like cod or haddock.
Use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for varying flavor profiles.
Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a touch of sophistication.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
Buttered asparagus or green beans make a great side dish.
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Best Places

Le Bernardin - Renowned for its seafood dishes and elegant dining experience. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA
The Fish Market - Offers a wide variety of fresh fish dishes in a lively atmosphere. Location: 451 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, USA
Sturehof - A classic venue for seafood lovers, situated in the heart of Stockholm. Location: Sturegallerian 36, Stockholm, Sweden
La Maree - Known for its refined preparations of seafood in a romantic setting. Location: 25 bis rue La Boétie, Paris, France
Scott’s - A London institution with a long history of serving exquisite seafood dishes. Location: 20 Mount St, Mayfair, London, UK
Ristorante Da Valentino - An Italian eatery that excels in seafood cuisine. Location: 11 Moulmein Rd, Singapore
Kai Mayfair - Offers a modern twist on Chinese seafood dishes. Location: 65 S Audley St, Mayfair, London, UK
Osteria Francescana - A Michelin-starred restaurant celebrated for its gourmet seafood offerings. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy
Nobu Tokyo - Fuses traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian accents. Location: 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan
Tetsuya’s - Known for its creative Japanese-European fusion with an emphasis on seafood. Location: 529 Kent St, Sydney, Australia