Goby fish, often overlooked in Western cuisine, offers a surprisingly delicate and delicious flavor when prepared correctly. This unassuming little fish, with its firm texture and subtle sweetness, is a culinary treasure waiting to be discovered. Many shy away from goby due to a perceived "fishy" smell, but this recipe expertly addresses that concern, resulting in a dish that's both flavorful and incredibly appealing. We'll unlock the secrets to braising goby, transforming this humble ingredient into a truly special meal.
This simple braised goby fish recipe focuses on maximizing the inherent flavors of the fish while eliminating any unpleasant odors. Through careful preparation and the use of aromatic ingredients, we'll create a dish that is both easy to prepare and utterly satisfying. Ready to experience the delightful taste of perfectly braised goby? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Blender (optional)
- Pot
- Stove
Ingredients
- Goby fish: 300g
- Fresh coconut water: 200ml
- Shallots: 3
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Tuber: 10g
- Chili: 1
- Green onion: 1
- Salt
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Seasoning powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- MSG: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Fish sauce: 1 spoon
- Caramel: 1.5 spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate
- Clean and prepare the goby fish. Rinse with water and drain.
- Finely chop green onions for garnish.
- Cut remaining ingredients (shallots, garlic, tuber, chili) into small pieces and blend or grind in a mortar. Do not puree completely.
- A caramel recipe link is provided in the video description)
Step 2. Sauté and Braise
- Heat cooking oil in a pot. Add the remaining blended ingredients and saute until fragrant and golden brown.
- Add the marinated fish to the pot and stir-fry briefly to firm and flavor the fish.
- Add 200ml of fresh coconut water, mix well, and bring to a boil. Adjust the fish to be covered in liquid.
- Simmer on medium heat for about 2 minutes until the fish is cooked, avoiding flipping or crushing the fish. The sauce will thicken naturally.
Step 3. Garnish and Finish
- Garnish with chopped green onions and simmer for another 40 seconds until slightly wilted.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- If you don't have caramel, caramelize sugar until brown to substitute.
- This recipe creates a thick, flavorful sauce without a fishy smell.
- The braising liquid is delicious poured over rice.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Why do some goby fish smell fishy?
Improper cleaning and handling, or not using the right cooking method can lead to a fishy smell. This recipe focuses on techniques to avoid that.
2. Can I substitute other fish for goby?
While goby is ideal for this recipe due to its texture, you could try similar small, firm white fish like cod or rockfish. Adjust cooking time as needed.
3. What if I don't have all the ingredients listed?
Feel free to adjust the recipe based on your pantry. The core flavors come from ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, so those are essential. Other aromatics are optional.
This simple braised goby recipe proves that even the most unassuming fish can become a culinary star. With its tender texture and rich, savory flavor, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy your delicious and surprisingly easy goby feast!