Introduction
Braised Fish is a comforting dish popular in Asian cuisine, especially Chinese and Southeast Asian households. The fish is lightly fried then simmered in a savory sauce made with soy, garlic, and ginger until tender and flavorful. It’s a perfect dish to serve with steamed rice and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 whole fish (tilapia, snapper, or sea bass), cleaned and scored
- 3 tbsp oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp ginger, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1 chili (optional), sliced
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup water or broth
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Fish: Clean and pat dry the fish. Make diagonal cuts on each side for better flavor absorption.
- Light Frying: Heat oil in a large pan or wok. Lightly fry the fish on both sides until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, sauté ginger, garlic, and scallions (and chili if using) until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Add light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water/broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Braise the Fish: Gently place the fried fish back into the pan. Spoon sauce over the top. Cover and let simmer for 10–15 minutes, turning once if needed.
- Finish: When fish is tender and the sauce is slightly thickened, garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Benefits
- High in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids
- Low in carbohydrates
- Ginger and garlic support digestion and immunity
- Versatile and adjustable for various taste preferences
Lovers
This dish is beloved by fans of home-style Asian cooking, seafood lovers, and anyone who enjoys bold, umami-rich flavors. It’s especially popular during family dinners and festive occasions.
Conclusion
Braised Fish is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that combines tender fish with savory sauce. Whether you’re new to Asian cooking or a seasoned chef, this comforting meal is sure to become a household favorite.
