Ryba po Cygańsku: A Delicious Polish Fish Recipe

Ryba po Cygańsku, or “Gypsy-style fish,” is a flavorful and vibrant dish from Poland that blends the freshness of fish with the rich, tangy flavors of a tomato-based sauce. This recipe is known for its deep, savory taste and the unique combination of spices that give it an unmistakable depth of flavor. Whether you’re a fan of Polish cuisine or looking to try something new, Ryba po Cygańsku is a perfect choice for a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for both special occasions and everyday dinners.

Ingredients:

4 fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or any white fish)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped (red or yellow for added color)
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:

Prepare the Fish: Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), tomato paste, thyme, and chili flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce gets too thick, add the white wine or a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
Cook the Fish: Gently add the fish fillets to the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the fillets. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
Final Touches: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Serve the fish with the sauce on top, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with boiled potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. For an extra touch, serve with a wedge of lemon for a burst of freshness.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to prevent the fish from becoming too dry.
Variations:

Vegetarian Version: Replace the fish with thick slices of tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option. Ensure to use a vegetable broth or a mix of tomato and vegetable juices for the sauce.
Additional Vegetables: For extra flavor, you can add other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to the sauce. These will absorb the tomato-based sauce and create a more robust dish.
Spicy: If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chili peppers to the sauce for an extra kick.