Good reasons to make baked hake
This recipe for baked hake is very easy to prepare and requires very little active time in the kitchen. The fish stays moist and flaky when cooked in the oven with a little olive oil. It is a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with many different side dishes. You only need a few basic pantry staples to create a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
A step-by-step guide to baked hake
Prepare the oven: Preheat your oven to 200C and lightly grease a baking dish with a small amount of oil. Pat the fish fillets dry using kitchen paper to ensure the seasoning sticks well. Place the fillets in the dish in a single layer.
Season the fish: Mix the olive oil, crushed garlic, oregano, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Brush this mixture evenly over the top of each piece of fish. Slice half of the lemon into thin rounds and place them on top of the fillets.
Bake the fillets: Put the dish into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. The fish is ready when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook it or the fish may become dry.
Serve the meal: Remove the dish from the oven and squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the hot fish. Serve the baked hake immediately while it is fresh. This dish goes well with steamed potatoes or a light green salad.
Tips and tricks for baked hake
Always choose fresh hake with clear eyes and a clean smell if buying whole or firm white flesh if buying fillets. If you use frozen fish, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before you start your baked hake. You can add a splash of white wine to the baking dish for extra moisture and depth.
Feel free to swap the oregano for fresh parsley or dill if you prefer different herbs. Checking the internal temperature with a thermometer can help you reach the perfect level of doneness. The fish should reach 63C to be safe and juicy.
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venison medallions,
stuffed pork tenderloin with prunes or
osso buco.