Step 1: Thawing the Fish
Before cooking the frozen pangasius, you must first thaw it. There are two primary methods for thawing frozen fish: refrigerator thawing and cold water thawing. Refrigerator thawing is the preferred method as it allows for a slow and even thawing process, preserving the fish’s quality. Simply transfer the frozen pangasius from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight or for approximately 24 hours.
If you are pressed for time, you can opt for the cold water thawing method. Place the frozen pangasius in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in a bowl of cold water. Replace the water every 30 minutes until the fish is fully thawed. Ensure that the pangasius is kept in its packaging during this process to avoid any water contamination.
Step 2: Preparing the Marinade
While the pangasius is thawing, you can start preparing a simple yet flavorful marinade to infuse the fish with deliciousness. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
Step 3: Marinating the Fish
Once the pangasius is fully thawed, pat it dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Carefully place the fish fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pangasius, ensuring that it coats both sides of the fillets. Gently massage the marinade into the fish, allowing the flavors to penetrate. Cover the dish or seal the bag and let the pangasius marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Cooking the Pangasius
When you are ready to cook the pangasius, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Carefully transfer the marinated pangasius fillets to the prepared baking sheet, making sure to shake off any excess marinade. Arrange the fillets in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook the pangasius for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Once the pangasius is cooked to perfection, you can serve it immediately with your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Garnish the fish with a squeeze of lemon juice, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
In conclusion, cooking frozen pangasius is a simple and delicious endeavor. By following these steps, you can transform frozen pangasius into a flavorful and moist dish that is sure to please your taste buds.