Traditional pickled fish is a favourite here in SA, so why not enjoy it any time of year? Make this option and serve it with a government loaf for a budget-friendly treat!

SERVES 4 // COOKING TIME 20 min

INGREDIENTS
2 baby onions, skin removed and halved
1 cup white wine vinegar
2 tbsp turmeric powder
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp white and black mustard seeds
4 hake fillets
¼ cup vegetable oil
Government loaf, to serve

METHOD
1. Preheat a pan, drizzle 1 tbsp oil, then grill the onions on each side for 2–3 minutes on low heat.
2. Heat the vinegar with the turmeric, garlic, mustard seeds and onions until it comes to a simmer. Place in a dish for fillets to lie in.
3. Grill the fish fillets in 3 tbsp of oil, on one side for 3–4 minutes. Then place in the pickling liquid for at least 30 minutes.
4. Place a fish fillet on each plate. Tear pieces of the bread off and place alongside the fish. Spoon the onion halves with the pickling liquid over the fish. Serve immediately.

Recipe & styling: Amerae Vercueil
Photography: Andreas Eiselen // HMimages.co.za