Imagine a dish that captures the vibrant essence of Caribbean cuisine, where succulent red snapper fillets are gently simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce that tells a story of tropical tradition. This stewed red snapper recipe isn't just a meal—it's a culinary journey that promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary, bringing the warmth and passion of Caribbean kitchens right to your dining table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 red snapper fillets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Rinse the red snapper fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help remove any excess moisture.
- Chop the onion, dice the tomatoes, slice the bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Next, add the diced tomatoes and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper over the vegetable mixture. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Carefully place the red snapper fillets into the skillet, nestling them into the vegetable mixture. Spoon some of the vegetables over the fillets to keep them moist while cooking.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the fillets to stew for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once the fish is done, remove the skillet from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
- Serve the stewed red snapper fillets hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Fish: Always select the freshest red snapper fillets possible. Look for firm, translucent flesh with a mild ocean scent.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Ensure your fish fillets are completely dry before cooking to achieve better caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Low and Slow Cooking: The key to tender, flaky fish is gentle, slow stewing. Keep your heat low and be patient.
- Don't Overcook: Red snapper cooks quickly. Watch for the fish to turn opaque and flake easily—this usually takes 15-20 minutes.
- Flavor Enhancing: For an extra Caribbean touch, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of allspice to your vegetable base.
- Serve Immediately: Stewed fish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan, to preserve its delicate texture and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 157kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
