Hake in green sauce, or "merluza en salsa verde" in Spanish, is a classic dish from the Basque Country, a region in northern Spain known for its excellent cuisine. This simple yet flavorful recipe features hake fillets cooked in a fragrant sauce made with parsley, garlic, onion, and white wine.
Hake is a type of fish commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It has a delicate, flaky white flesh and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that makes it a popular choice for many dishes. In the Basque Country, hake is often cooked in green sauce, a light and herbaceous sauce that pairs perfectly with the fish.
To make hake in green sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 hake fillets
- 2 cups fresh parsley leaves
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup fish or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to make Hake in green sauce or merluza en salsa verde
- To prepare the dish, start by heating the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the parsley and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Next, add the white wine and broth to the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season the hake fillets with salt and black pepper and place them in the pan, skin-side down. Cover the pan and let the fish cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is opaque and flaky.
- Once the hake is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the sauce until it is smooth and creamy. Return the hake fillets to the pan and spoon the sauce over them. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprig of fresh parsley.
Hake in green sauce is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. It is a staple of Basque cuisine and a great way to enjoy the flavors of this unique region. Give it a try and you won't be disappointed!
