Pike with Caramelized Onions and Roasted Potatoes

Delicate, flaky pike paired with sweet, rich caramelized onions and crispy oven-roasted potatoes—this dish is a true harmony of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a dish to impress, this recipe brings out the best of simple, wholesome ingredients.

INGREDIENTS

For the Fish:

• 350 g pike, cleaned and head removed
• 1 tablespoon spice mix for fish
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Potatoes:

• 5 potatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 4 medium-sized onions
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

For Garnish:

• A handful of leek sprouts

METHOD

Step 1: Prepare the Pike

1. Rinse the pike thoroughly under cold water and pat dry.
2. Cut the fish into smaller, evenly sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, coat the pike pieces with the spice mix and 1 teaspoon of salt, ensuring an even distribution.
4. Cover and let the fish marinate in the refrigerator for 2–4 hours to enhance the flavours.

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Peel, wash, and slice the potatoes into 1/2 cm thick slices.
3. In a bowl, toss the potato slices with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
4. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray.
5. Bake for 40 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

1. Peel and slice the onions into thin half-moons.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add the butter and let it melt completely.
4. Stir in the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
5. Sprinkle with brown sugar and pour in the balsamic vinegar.
6. Continue cooking until the onions are deeply caramelized and fragrant, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Fry the Pike

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the marinated pike pieces and fry until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Arrange the roasted potatoes on a serving plate.
2. Spoon caramelized onions over the potatoes.
3. Place a piece of fried pike on top.
4. Garnish with fresh leek sprouts for an extra touch of flavour and freshness.

Enjoy this beautifully balanced dish that combines crispy, sweet, and savoury flavours in every bite!