Wrap Monkfish In Parma Ham For A Balanced Sweet And Salty Flavor
While harmony is always much appreciated, a contrast in flavor is sometimes the key to an irresistible and strikingly memorable dish. It highlights the ingredients' best features and layers in stunning complexity, keeping the flavor profile from being too one-dimensional. For something that's often regarded as mild and sweet like monkfish, a salty Parma ham wrap is just the juxtaposition needed to bring out its best qualities. This exquisite combination lays a bold base that enhances the fish's delicate nature without taking anything away. With each bite, you get an ever-winding carousel of sweet, salty, savory, and nutty flavors. These notes seamlessly meld into each other, striking the perfect balance between contrasting and complementing.
Although the flavor interplay is the main focus, this combination also comes with a few other perks. The first one is an eye-catching, elegant visual appeal that makes the meal feel like a fine dining experience. It's a unique sight for sure; the rosy rich ham enrobing the white monkfish, all perhaps drenched in a dark marinade and surrounded by colorful vegetables. Another bonus point is the enhancement of texture, especially with the fish. Wrapped in Parma ham, the monkfish retains its moisture during the cooking process so there's no need to worry about dryness. What you end up getting is perfectly tender, flaky meat that's also soaked in flavor.
Read more: 15 Different Ways To Cook Fish
Perfect Complements For Monkfish And Parma Ham
This monkfish and Parma ham combination's potential stretches beyond those two ingredients. If you have some time on your hands, consider bringing some spices and condiments to the party. Make a marinade from olive oil, citrus, herbs, and spices to thoroughly infuse the fish with a deeply enticing scent. Alternatively, you can make a sauce from dry wine, balsamic, mustard, pesto, salsa, etc. to coat everything with an extra layer of flavor. You can also include leafy greens in the wrap for an earthy spike to cut through all the sweet and salty notes.
As for serving, you also have quite a few options. Keep the Parma ham-wrapped fish company with a colorful serving of sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil, baby potatoes, asparagus, and anything else you prefer on the side. Not only will this enhance the dish's nutritional value, but it will also diversify the flavors and textures for a more tumultuous, exciting eating experience. Add a bed of couscous, lentils, or noodles, and you've got a stunning main course fit for any occasion.
For garnishing, a sprinkle of nuts is fantastic for adding a smidgen of crunch and that fun nutty undertone. Of course, if nuts aren't really your favorite, use herbs like dill, rosemary, or basil for an aromatic finish. Beyond these choices, there are also quite a few others to get creative with. Whatever you have in mind, give it a go to explore this dish's endless possibilities.
Read the original article on Tasting Table.
