escovitch fish

Original post: http://greedygirlcooks.blogspot.com/2014/12/greedy-girl-eats-homemade-escovitch-fish.html

Ingredients

Oil

Fish seasoning

Because fish varies by size different sizes require different portions of salt and black pepper. Season the outsides, in the cut and inside the head

  • Large- 1lb and up ( 1 tablespoon salt 3/4 teaspoon black pepper)
  • Medium- 1/2 to 3/4 lb (1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Small- Less than 1/2 lb (1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper)

Pickle

3 onions

2 scotch bonnet peppers

1 tablespoon allspice berries

1 small carrot

2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon sugar

3 teaspoon vinegar

1/4 cup water

Instructions

    • Set up your coal fire and place the pot with oil to heat to 400 degree minimum
    • Slice the fish on both sides. Season with salt and black pepper in the slice, skin and inside the head
    • Prepare thick onion slices, slice the pepper, and shred the carrots
    • Once the oil is hot place the fish in the hot oil and fry for about 5 minutes or until it is golden brown and crispy. remove from the oil and drain.
    • Allow the oil to reheat then continue frying until all the fish is done.
    • One all the fish is fried discard the oil reserving about 2 tablespoons.
    • Place the pot back on the coal fire and saute the onions, carrots, peppers, salt and sugar
    • After a minute of sauteing add the allspice, vinegar and water allow it to simmer for another three minutes
    • Top the fish with this pickle mixture and serve.

Greedy tips:

    • Use enough oil to cover (or almost cover) the fish
    • Make sure to use a thermometer. Don't put the fish in the oil if it is not above 400 degrees. So between each batch make sure to allow the oil temperature to rise before adding.
    • If you don’t have the time to set up an outside wood fire, a deep fryer or pan frying at a really high heat will suffice just make sure the oil is as hot as possible.
    • The pickle can be set aside once sealed for a very long time. If you intend to open it periodically and use it store in the refrigerator. If you plan on sealing it for months it can be left at room temperature.