Pineapple and Fish Balls with a Twist

Ingredients

In the original Pacific Northwest dish, the fish balls are typically served with a heavier sauce and accompanied by local ingredients such as mushrooms and wild greens. In this Nouvelle cuisine adaptation, the focus is on lighter flavors and a more refined presentation. The sauce is lighter and more delicate, allowing the flavors of the fish balls and pineapple to shine. The addition of pineapple brings a tropical twist to the dish, adding a touch of freshness and brightness. We alse have the original recipe for Pineapple and Fish Balls, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh white fish fillets, deboned and skinless 500g (1.1 lb) fresh white fish fillets, deboned and skinless
• 1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs 1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, and chives) 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, and chives)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 small pineapple, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks 1 small pineapple, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• Fresh herbs, for garnish Fresh herbs, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, combine the fish fillets, breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well combined and the mixture forms a smooth paste.
2. 2.
   Shape the fish mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. 3.
   In a large pot, bring water to a gentle simmer. Carefully drop the fish balls into the simmering water and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until they are cooked through and firm.
4. 4.
   While the fish balls are cooking, heat the olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they are slightly caramelized.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and honey. Pour the mixture over the caramelized pineapple and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. 6.
   Remove the fish balls from the pot using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish. Arrange the caramelized pineapple around the fish balls.
7. 7.
   Drizzle the sauce over the fish balls and pineapple. Garnish with fresh herbs.
8. 8.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical flavors of this Nouvelle cuisine creation.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Use fresh white fish fillets such as cod, haddock, or halibut for the best results. Ensure the fillets are deboned and skinless before processing.
• Pineapple — Choose a ripe pineapple for maximum sweetness. Cut it into bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking and easy serving.

Tips & Tricks

• For a touch of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes to the fish ball mixture.
• Serve the dish with a side of steamed rice or quinoa to make it a more substantial meal.
• Experiment with different herbs in the fish ball mixture, such as cilantro or basil, to add unique flavors.
• If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey in the pineapple sauce.
• To save time, you can prepare the fish ball mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook.

Serving advice

Serve the Pineapple and Fish Balls with a Twist as an appetizer or a light main course. Plate the fish balls and caramelized pineapple attractively, drizzle the sauce over them, and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

Create an eye-catching presentation by arranging the fish balls and pineapple in a circular pattern on the plate. Drizzle the sauce in a zigzag pattern over the dish for an artistic touch. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs for a pop of color.