To begin, you will need to gather your ingredients. You will need four fresh perch fillets, 1 cup of cornmeal, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 large Tropea onions. You may also want to have lemon wedges and parsley on hand for garnish.
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, slice your Tropea onions into thin rings. Heat up a large skillet over medium heat and add in the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add in the onion rings and sauté them for about six to eight minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
Next, mix together the cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish. Dip each perch fillet into the mixture until it is coated evenly on both sides.
Heat up the same skillet you used for the onions on medium-high heat. Add in the coated perch fillets and cook for about three to four minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Once the fish is cooked, transfer it to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about five to seven minutes or until it is cooked through.
Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and serve it with the caramelized Tropea onions on top. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley if desired.
Perch is a delicious and light fish that is perfect for those who are trying to eat healthier. It is a good source of protein and is low in fat and calories. The cornmeal crust adds a nice crunch to the fish and pairs well with the sweetness of the onions.
Tropea onions are a unique and delicious type of onion that are native to the southern region of Italy. They have a sweet and mild taste and are perfect for caramelizing. If you can’t find Tropea onions at your local grocery store, you can substitute them with another type of sweet onion such as Vidalia.
In conclusion, perch in cornmeal crust with Tropea onions is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a dinner party or just a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and see for yourself how delicious and easy it is to make.