Linh fish, with its delicate, flaky texture, is a true culinary gem, often overlooked in Western cuisines. This recipe showcases the fish's inherent sweetness and subtle flavor through a simple yet incredibly flavorful braising technique. Forget complicated preparations; this dish is surprisingly easy to master, requiring minimal ingredients and time. The fragrant peppercorns, combined with a touch of soy sauce and ginger, create a rich, savory broth that perfectly complements the fish without overpowering its natural taste. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or an impressive yet effortless dinner party.
Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can elevate a humble fish into a culinary masterpiece. Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own unforgettable Braised Linh Fish with Pepper. Follow along as we guide you through each stage, from preparing the fish to achieving that perfectly balanced, savory broth.
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Mortar and pestle
- Pot
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Linh fish: 350g
- Shallots: 4
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Chili peppers: 6
- Green onions: 20g
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- MSG: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground pepper: a bit
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Cooking oil
- Water: 50ml
- Caramel: 1 spoonful
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Marinate Fish
- Pound garlic, shallots, and 3 chili peppers together.
- Marinate fish with sugar, MSG, ground pepper, fish sauce, and half of the pounded mixture. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Flatten the remaining chili peppers.
- Cut green onions into small strips.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Braise the Fish
- Heat cooking oil in a pot. Saute the remaining pounded shallots, garlic, and chili peppers until fragrant. Add three more whole chili peppers.
- Add the marinated fish and stir-fry briefly.
- Add 50ml of water and 1 spoonful of caramel. Mix well.
Step 3. Simmer and Thicken the Sauce
- Reduce heat to low and simmer until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Add chopped green onions and cook for a few more seconds.
- Turn off the heat. The braised fish with pepper is ready.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Don't overcook the fish, or it will become fishy.
- If the braised sauce isn't rich enough, add more fish sauce.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute Linh fish with another type of fish?
Yes, firm white fish like cod, snapper, or sea bass work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the fish's thickness.
2. What if I don't have black peppercorns? Can I use something else?
You can substitute with other peppercorns (like white peppercorns) or a pinch of ground black pepper for a slightly milder flavor. However, the whole peppercorns provide a more intense and aromatic flavor.
This simple braising technique unlocks the delicate flavor of Linh fish, creating a dish that's both elegant and satisfying. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. With minimal effort, you'll impress your friends and family with a truly delicious and unforgettable meal.