FISH ESCABECHE (PESCADO EN ESCABECHE)

Steps:

• In a large shallow dish, combine the flour and Essence. Dredge the fish in the flour to lightly coat. In a large skillet or saute pan, heat about 1/4 cup of the oil over medium-high heat. Add the fish in batches and cook until brown on both sides and just cooked through, adding more oil as needed for each batch. Remove and drain on paper towels. In a clean skillet, heat 1/4 cup of oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, peppers, bay leaves, thyme, peppercorns, salt, and pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally until the onions are soft and starting to color, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove the onion mixture from the heat and add the vinegar. Stir to combine and let cool completely. Lay the fish in glass baking dish. Pour the cooled mixture over the fish, cover tightly, and refrigerate at least 12 and up to 24 hours. To serve, arrange a bed of lettuce on the bottom of a large platter. Arrange the fish over the lettuce and garnish with the tomatoes, green onions, olives, and lemon wedges. Serve chilled. Essence (Emeril's Creole Seasoning): 2 1/2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons salt 2 tablespoons garlic powder 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon dried leaf oregano 1 tablespoon dried thyme Combine all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight jar or container. Yield: about 2/3 cup