Monkfish and Spinach in Puff Pastry

Introduction

Monkfish and Spinach in Puff Pastry is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that is sure to impress. This dish combines the flavours of monkfish, spinach, white wine, and butter with a flaky puff pastry crust. The combination of flavours creates a delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick and easy meal, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Ease of preparation

This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare. It takes only minutes to prepare the ingredients, and the puff pastry sheets can be thawed according to the instructions on the package. The monkfish and spinach are cooked in a buttery white wine sauce and then layered with the puff pastry. The dish is then baked in the oven until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.

Nutritional information

One serving of Monkfish and Spinach in Puff Pastry contains approximately 300 calories, 14 grams of fat, 16 grams of protein, and 5 grams of carbohydrates. This dish is also an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Ingredients

-1 lb monkfish fillet, cut into cubes

-1/2 lb baby spinach, washed and dried

-1/2 cup white wine

-1/4 cup butter

-1/4 cup chopped shallots

-1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

-1/2 teaspoon salt

-1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

-1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

-1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

-1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

-1/2 teaspoon paprika

-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

-1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

-1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

-1/2 teaspoon dried basil

-1/2 teaspoon dried dill

-1 package (17.3 ounces) of frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed according to package instructions

-1 egg, beaten, for egg wash

Preparation method

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and parsley, and cook until softened about 2 minutes.
3. Add monkfish cubes and season with salt, pepper, thyme, garlic powder, nutmeg, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, cumin, basil, and dill. Cook until the monkfish is cooked through, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the spinach and white wine, and cook until the spinach is wilted and the liquid has reduced about 3 minutes.
5. Transfer the monkfish and spinach mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Unfold the puff pastry sheets and place them on top of the monkfish and spinach mixture. Brush with the beaten egg.
7. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.

Cooking tips

When preparing this dish, it is important to use fresh ingredients. Monkfish is a delicate fish and can easily become overcooked, so be sure to keep an eye on it while it is cooking. Additionally, make sure to use a white wine that you would drink, as the flavour of the wine will be prominent in the dish.

Flavour/Taste

Monkfish and Spinach in Puff Pastry is a savoury dish with a hint of sweetness from the white wine. The monkfish has a mild, delicate flavour that pairs nicely with the earthy spinach and buttery puff pastry. The herbs and spices add a subtle depth of flavour that makes this dish truly unique.

Best dishes paired with

This dish pairs nicely with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a crisp, cold beer would be a great accompaniment.

Origin of dish and history

Monkfish and Spinach in Puff Pastry is a classic French dish that dates back to the 18th century. It was originally created as a way to use up leftover puff pastry dough and was served as a light meal. The dish has since become popular in many countries around the world and is a favourite among seafood lovers.

Popular alternatives

If you are looking for a similar dish, consider trying Salmon and Spinach in Puff Pastry. This dish is prepared in the same way but with salmon substituted for the monkfish. Additionally, you can try substituting other types of fish, such as cod, haddock, or halibut.