How to Cook Chinese Fish with Pickled Chili Sauce
Cooking Chinese fish with pickled chili sauce is a flavorful and aromatic experience that can elevate your dining to new heights. This dish is known for its bold flavors and easy preparation, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 fresh fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or snapper)
- 2 tablespoons of pickled chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Fish
Start by rinsing the fish fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture, allowing for better cooking results. Season both sides of the fish fillets with salt.
2. Make the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the pickled chili sauce, soy sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and sugar. This mixture will create a balanced sauce that combines heat and sweetness, perfect for highlighting the fish's delicate flavor.
3. Sear the Fish
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fish fillets into the skillet. Sear the fish for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Add the Sauce
Gently flip the fish fillets over to the other side and pour the prepared sauce over the fish. Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the fish to cook in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the fish from the heat and transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle some of the pan sauce over the fish and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious flavors.
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, marinate the fish in some of the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a milder dish, adjust the amount of pickled chili sauce to suit your taste.
- Consider adding vegetables, such as bell peppers or snap peas, to the skillet for a complete meal.
This simple yet stunning recipe for Chinese fish with pickled chili sauce is sure to impress your family and friends. Its combination of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors creates an unforgettable dish that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.