How to Make Chinese Fish with Spicy Garlic Sauce
Chinese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients, and one dish that stands out is Chinese fish with spicy garlic sauce. This recipe brings together tender fish fillets and a spicy sauce bursting with garlic, making it a perfect dish for any seafood lover. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delectable dish at home.
Ingredients
To make Chinese fish with spicy garlic sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust based on spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
1. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides of the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Coat the fish fillets evenly with cornstarch. This creates a crispy texture when fried.
Step 2: Cook the Fish
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the fish fillets to the skillet. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the fish from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Garlic Sauce
1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burned.
2. Add the chili paste to the skillet and stir well, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
1. Lower the heat and carefully place the cooked fish fillets back into the skillet, making sure they're coated with the spicy garlic sauce.
2. Allow the fish to simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to soak up the flavors.
3. Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions for an extra touch of freshness.
Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
- Choose fresh fish for better flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your spice tolerance.
- Serve this dish over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Chinese fish with spicy garlic sauce is a delightful dish that combines the crunchy texture of fried fish with the irresistible heat of garlic and chili. With these simple steps, you can bring the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine to your dinner table!