Craving a quick, flavorful, and authentic Vietnamese dish? Look no further than this simple recipe for Braised Tilapia with Pepper. This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients to create a surprisingly sophisticated meal in minutes. The delicate white flesh of the tilapia perfectly absorbs the rich, savory sauce, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy cooking times; this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a satisfying lunch. The fragrant peppercorns and vibrant flavors will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Vietnam.
This incredibly easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without the restaurant price tag. The perfectly balanced blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes creates a harmonious symphony of flavors. Ready to experience the magic of Vietnamese cuisine in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create this delicious Braised Tilapia with Pepper together!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Bowl
- Pan or pot
Ingredients
- Tilapia fish: 500g
- Shallots: 5
- Chili peppers: 5
- Garlic cloves: 5
- Green onions: 40g
- Lemon
- Salt
- Seasoning powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- MSG: 1 teaspoon
- Ground pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Caramel: 1 1/2 tablespoons
- Caramel water
- Cooking oil
- Water: 300ml
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tilapia and Marinade
- Clean the tilapia fish. Remove the intestines and scales. Rub with lemon and salt to remove slime and reduce fishy smell. Rinse and drain.
- thinly slice shallots, finely chop garlic, and slice chili peppers (reserve 2 for later).
- Cut the green onions into 1-2cm pieces.
- Lightly score the fish to help it absorb the marinade.
- In a bowl, combine the fish with half of the prepared aromatics, seasoning powder, sugar, MSG, pepper, fish sauce, and caramel. Marinate for 20-30 minutes.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Pan-fry Tilapia
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Add the remaining aromatics and fry until golden and fragrant.
- Add the marinated fish to the pan and pan-fry until firm and the marinade is fragrant. Flip gently once or twice.
Step 3. Braise and Finish
- Add 300ml of water (or coconut water) to braise the fish. Cover and simmer over medium heat for about 3 minutes.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Occasionally baste the fish with the sauce to keep it moist and add color. Do not flip frequently.
- Add the green onions during the last 30-40 seconds of cooking. Turn off the heat.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the braised tilapia on a plate, pouring the braising liquid over it.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using caramel adds a beautiful reddish-brown color to the dish.
- The braising liquid can be used as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, other white, flaky fish like cod or snapper will work well. Adjust cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness of the fish.
2. What if I don't have fish sauce?
Soy sauce can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
3. How can I make this spicier?
Add more chili peppers or a dash of chili garlic sauce to increase the heat level to your preference.
This Braised Tilapia with Pepper recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients combined with classic Vietnamese techniques. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish as a weeknight meal or a delightful treat for guests. From start to finish, this recipe offers a quick and rewarding culinary experience that will leave you craving more.