Are you tired of the same old fish recipes? Craving something vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then prepare to be delighted by this Braised Orange Fish with Tomatoes recipe! This dish masterfully balances the sweetness of oranges with the savory depth of tomatoes, creating a culinary experience that's both refreshing and comforting. Forget dry, overcooked fish – this braising technique ensures succulent, tender fillets every time. The bright citrus notes cut through the richness of the tomatoes, resulting in a dish that's both elegant and satisfying.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and the beautiful presentation makes it ideal for impressing guests. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is truly irresistible, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions to create this incredible Braised Orange Fish with Tomatoes.
Tools Needed
- pot
- sieve
- pan
- knife
- spoon
Ingredients
- orange fish: 1kg (approx. 2-3 fish, 600g each)
- garlic: 32 cloves
- shallots: 3 bulbs
- braising sauce: See recipe in video (link to video)
- pepper
- tomatoes
- chili peppers
- tea water
- cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Fish
- Clean the orange fish thoroughly, removing any blood or impurities from the belly.
- Cut the fish into bite-sized pieces.
- Pre-process the fish with tea water to remove fishy smell. Soak the fish in boiling tea water for 10-15 minutes.
- Wash the fish again after tea water treatment to remove any tea smell.
- Fry the fish in hot oil until golden brown and firm on both sides.
- Remove the fried fish and set aside to drain excess oil.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes
- Sauté chopped shallots and garlic until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes and tomato juice to the pan, stirring until slightly softened and fragrant.
Step 3. Create the Braising Liquid
- Add about 300ml of water and the prepared braising sauce. Bring to a boil.
Step 4. Braising and Finishing
- Add the fried fish to the tomato sauce mixture. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the fish to absorb the flavors.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use slightly ripe tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- The longer you braise the fish, the more flavorful it will become.
- Don't braise all the liquid, save some for a delicious dipping sauce.
- Optional: Add pork belly during the braising process for added richness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-800
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 50-60g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of fish?
Yes! This recipe works well with firm, white-fleshed fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia. Avoid overly delicate fish that might fall apart during braising.
2. What if I don't have fresh oranges?
You can substitute with 1/2 cup of orange juice and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the braising liquid and vegetables ahead of time. Assemble the dish just before cooking for the best results. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Braised Orange Fish with Tomatoes recipe proves that simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. The delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender, juicy fish, will leave you wanting more. Enjoy this delightful recipe, and don't be afraid to experiment with different variations to make it your own!