Easy Caravan Cooking: Whole-Baked Fish Recipe by MasterChef’s Brent Draper

Take inspiration from MasterChef winner and Jayco Vanbassador, Brent Draper, with this simple, flavour-packed recipe that’s perfect for cooking in a caravan or on the BBQ during your travels. With fresh fennel, lemon, and tarragon, this whole-baked fish is a quick, easy way to enjoy local seafood on the road without compromising on flavour or quality.

Recipe by Brent Draper, MasterChef Winner & Jayco Vanbassador

Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 1 whole fish, scaled and gutted (grassy sweet lip, snapper, or barramundi work well)
• 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 2 lemons, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp capers
• 1 bunch of tarragon, larger stems removed, leaves only
• 2 large tbsp butter
• Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the BBQ to medium-high heat. (Tip: Brent recommends using your Jayco caravan’s outdoor setup if you have one, or a BBQ for that perfect, smoky flavour.)
2. Prepare the Fennel: In a pan on medium heat, add a splash of EVOO and sauté the fennel until softened. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Fish: Make slices about 4cm apart into the thickest part of the fish’s flesh on both sides. This helps with even cooking and allows the flavours to penetrate.
4. Prepare the Wrapping: Lay out a large piece of aluminium foil, and place a piece of baking paper the size of the fish on top.
5. Assemble the Fish: Place half of the sautéed fennel and some lemon slices on the baking paper, then place the fish on top. Stuff the fish with additional fennel, lemon slices, capers, tarragon leaves, and butter. Drizzle with EVOO, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Wrap It Up: Wrap the fish tightly with a few layers of foil to lock in all the flavours and juices.
7. Cook on the BBQ: Place the wrapped fish on the BBQ, preferably off direct heat if possible. Cook for 8-10 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s done when a skewer inserted into the thickest part of the flesh comes out warm to hot.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fish with a fresh salad, roasted potatoes, or rice for a complete, gourmet-style meal in the great outdoors.

This recipe is designed for those who love to embrace the freedom of van life, allowing you to whip up a delicious, restaurant-quality meal wherever your Jayco takes you. Enjoy the journey and the flavours along the way!