On February 14, 2025, food lovers are encouraged to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a specially curated dinner menu featuring some exquisite dishes. The recommended ensemble by the respected professional recipe site E-recipe showcases the delightful pairing of fluffy and crispy fried white fish with tartar sauce, complemented by crumbled tofu salad, shrimp and broccoli stir-fry, and decadent hot chocolate. This meal not only satisfies the taste buds but also enhances the romantic atmosphere of the special day.
The star of the menu is the "Fluffy and Crispy Fried White Fish with Tartar Sauce." This dish invites diners to enjoy tender white fish, usually cod, which is fried to golden perfection. To create this dish, start by selecting 3 to 4 pieces of cod fillet. After removing bones, cut the fish and season it lightly with salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors. The fish is then coated first with flour, followed by beaten egg, and finally rolled in breadcrumbs for its signature crunchy exterior. Once the oil is preheated to 170 degrees Celsius, the coated fish pieces are deep-fried until they achieve the desired golden hue. This cooking method ensures the fish remains tender and moist on the inside, creating the perfect bite!
A special homemade tartar sauce elevates this dish's flavor profile. The sauce is made by finely chopping hard-boiled eggs and pickled vegetables, particularly pickled onions, then mixing them with mayonnaise and mustard. The tartness from the pickles adds vibrancy, resulting in what expert Akiko Sugimoto describes as "an absolute gem" on her food blog, especially when served alongside the fish. The fried fish can also be served tucked inside soft bread, making it perfect for any casual dinner.
To complement the main dish, the menu includes the "Crumbled Tofu Western-style Salad." This salad blends silken tofu, leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and slices of prosciutto, all drizzled with an olive oil and white wine vinegar dressing. The fresh and light ingredients are easy to assemble, making this salad not only delicious but also visually appealing—a perfect pairing for the rich fish dish.
Adding variety to the meal is the "Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry." This dish brings together the delicate flavors of shrimp, which are first sautéed with garlic until fragrant. Broccoli florets are then introduced to the pan for stir-frying, resulting in vibrant color and crunch. A sprinkle of salt and pepper binds the ingredients together. The quick preparation time ensures the shrimp remains succulent and the broccoli crisp, making it another delightful element of this thoughtfully compiled menu.
To round off the evening and treat your loved ones, the "Hot Chocolate Drink" provides the perfect sweet finish. Combining rich dark chocolate melted slowly with warm milk and cream creates the base for this drink. To add depth, cocoa powder is stirred throughout, and those who desire can include a splash of rum for adult versions of this creamy delicacy. The perfect drink can be whisked together quickly on the stove, ensuring it’s ready to warm you up after the meal.
This careful selection of recipes not only delights the palate but also embodies the spirit of Valentine’s Day—a celebration of love, togetherness, and delicious food. Whether cooking for one or for many, these dishes open the door to heartfelt sharing and enjoyment. So set your cocktails aside, bring out your best plates, and prepare to impress your loved ones with this unforgettable culinary experience on Valentine's Day!