The Oven Baked Hake with Cheesy Tomato Crust is an exquisite keto-friendly recipe that guarantees a delightful dining experience. The combination of tender hake fillets, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese forms a luscious crust that adds an irresistible twist to traditional baked fish dishes. With a quick and straightforward preparation process, this recipe is accessible to both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.
The dish boasts a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an excellent option for a family dinner or a special occasion. Its low-carb nature appeals to those following a keto lifestyle, while its rich taste satisfies even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, the Oven Baked Hake with Cheesy Tomato Crust is sure to impress and delight your guests.
Ingredients
- Hake fillet — 700 g
- Tomatoes — 2 pcs.
- Hard cheese — 150 g.
- Sour cream — 200 g.
- Garlic — 2-3 cloves (to taste)
- Dill — 30 g.
- Fish seasoning
- Salt
- Ground black pepper
- Olive oil — 2 tbs.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before we begin our culinary journey, let’s make sure we have all the necessary kitchen equipment:
- Oven
- Baking tray
- Grater
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring utensils
With these tools at your disposal, you’re all set to create a culinary masterpiece!
Nutrition Facts
| Prep Time | 15 min. |
| Cooking Time | 30-40 min. |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 139 |
| Protein | 12 g. |
| Fat | 10 g. |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g. |
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
To get started, preheat your oven to 180-200 degrees Celsius (350-390 degrees Fahrenheit). Properly preheating the oven ensures even cooking and a delectable golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes and Herbs
Dice the ripe tomatoes into small cubes, and finely chop the fresh dill. These vibrant ingredients will add both color and freshness to our dish.
Step 3: Create the Cheesy Garlic Mixture
In a mixing bowl, squeeze the garlic cloves and add a pinch of salt. Combine the garlic with the sour cream, creating a creamy and flavorful base. Next, grate the hard cheese and fold it into the garlic-sour cream mixture, add spices. The result is a rich and cheesy delight that will elevate our hake fillets to new heights of deliciousness.
Step 4: Prepare the Hake Fillets
Cut the hake fillet into portions and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the fish from sticking to the tray and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 5: Season the Fish
Sprinkle each fish piece with fish seasoning, a touch of salt, and a pinch of ground black pepper. The seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the hake and ensures a well-balanced taste. I omitted this step, because I have added seasoning to the the cheesy vegetable mixture.
Step 6: Top it Off with Cheesy Tomato Crust
Now comes the exciting part! Spread the cheese-vegetable mixture generously on top of the fish fillets. The combination of melted cheese and juicy tomatoes will create a mouthwatering crust that’s irresistible.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking tray with the hake fillets in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked and the cheese crust turns a beautiful golden brown. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll know it’s almost time to indulge in your masterpiece.
Step 8: Bon Appetit!
Once the oven timer rings, your Oven Baked Hake with Cheesy Tomato Crust is ready to be savored. Gently remove the tray from the oven and allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. You may also decorate with lemon slices. Bon Appetit!
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen hake fillets for this recipe?
Certainly! While fresh hake fillets are ideal, you can use frozen ones as well. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before seasoning and baking.
2. I’m not a fan of dill. Can I use another herb?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs. Parsley, chives, or basil can be great alternatives to dill.
3. Can I prepare the cheesy tomato mixture in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the cheesy tomato mixture a few hours ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble the dish.
4. How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard to believe there will be any), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, use the oven to maintain the crispiness of the crust.
Recipe Variations
For a Mediterranean twist, add sliced black olives and capers to the cheesy tomato mixture before baking.
Craving a bit of heat? Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the fish fillets before adding the cheesy topping.
Substitute hake with other white fish like cod or haddock for a delightful variation.
Food Pairings
To complement the flavors of this Oven Baked Hake with Cheesy Tomato Crust, consider pairing it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay. The refreshing acidity of these wines will balance the richness of the dish perfectly.
In Conclusion
The Oven Baked Hake with Cheesy Tomato Crust is a seafood delight that’s as elegant as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat your family to a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share this delectable recipe with your friends and loved ones, and make sure to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering culinary adventures. Happy cooking!
