Walleye and Fries

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Cuisine: Indian Fusion

Keywords: walleye, tandoori, fish, fries, Indian, seafood, dinner

Description: A vibrant, Indian-inspired dish featuring walleye fillets marinated in a spicy tandoori yogurt blend, grilled or baked to perfection, and served with crispy, spice-dusted fries. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal or a special dinner.

Ingredients

For the Tandoori Walleye

  • 4 walleye fillets (6–8 oz each, skinless)
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp ginger paste
  • 1 tbsp garlic paste
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

For the Spiced Fries

  • 4 medium russet potatoes (cut into 1/4-inch fries)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tandoori Marinade

  1. In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, garam masala, red chili powder, salt, and vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth.
  2. Pat the walleye fillets dry with paper towels. Add the fillets to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (no longer than 4 hours to avoid over-marinating).

Step 2: Prepare the Spiced Fries

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  3. Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Walleye

  1. Grill Option: Preheat a grill to medium-high (400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the grates. Remove the walleye from the marinade, shaking off excess. Grill the fillets for 3–4 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly charred. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  2. Oven Option: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Transfer the walleye fillets to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.
  2. Plate the spiced fries alongside the walleye. Optionally, serve with a side of mint chutney or raita for dipping.

Notes

  • Substitutions: If walleye is unavailable, substitute with other firm white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia.
  • Marination Tip: Avoid marinating the fish too long, as the yogurt’s acidity can make the texture mushy.
  • Fry Texture: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch for crispier fries.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the red chili powder and cayenne to suit your heat preference.
  • Serving Suggestion: Pair with a simple cucumber salad or naan bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition (Approximate per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 cal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g