Cá Kho Dưa Chua, or caramelized fish with pickled mustard greens, is a vibrant and flavorful dish showcasing the best of Vietnamese cuisine. This comforting stew, a staple in many Vietnamese homes, beautifully balances the sweetness of caramelized fish with the tangy zest of pickled mustard greens. The rich, savory broth is infused with aromatic spices like garlic, shallots, and turmeric, creating a complex and deeply satisfying culinary experience. The combination of textures—tender fish, crisp-tender greens, and a luscious, sticky sauce—makes this dish truly unforgettable. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly extraordinary.
Beyond its deliciousness, Cá Kho Dưa Chua offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnamese culinary traditions. The careful balancing of sweet, sour, and savory flavors reflects a sophisticated understanding of taste and technique. To learn how to recreate this masterpiece in your own kitchen, let's delve into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Blender or mincing knife
- Pot
- Stove
Ingredients
- Snakehead fish (or catfish, sea bass, mackerel): 500g
- Shallots
- Garlic
- Galangal: 2-3 small slices
- Onion (head and greens)
- Pork belly: 200g
- Pickled mustard greens (dưa chua)
- Fish sauce: 3 tbsp + 2 tbsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp + 1 tbsp
- Seasoning powder: 1 tsp
- Pepper: 1/3 tsp
- Caramel: 1/2 tbsp + 1/2 tbsp
- Water: 250ml
- Lemon
- Salt
- Chili peppers
- Green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Marinate Fish
- Mince shallots and garlic. Slice galangal and onion.
- Clean and cut the fish into slits, wash with salt and diluted lemon to remove fishy smell.
- Marinate the fish with half a tablespoon of onion and garlic, one teaspoon of seasoning powder, one teaspoon of sugar, three teaspoons of fish sauce, 1/3 teaspoon of pepper, and half a tablespoon of caramel. Let it sit for 20 minutes.
- Cut pork belly into small pieces.
- Cut pickled mustard greens into bite-sized pieces.
- two tablespoons of fish sauce, one tablespoon of sugar, 250ml water, and 1/2 tablespoon of caramel.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Pork, then Cook Fish
- Put pork belly in a pot and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside, reserving about a tablespoon of fat.
- Add half of the onion and garlic mixture to the pot and stir-fry, then add pickled mustard greens and stir-fry for 1 minute. Remove and set aside.
- Add the reserved pork fat, half a tablespoon of onion and garlic mixture to the pot, and then add the marinated fish. Fry until both sides are brown.
Step 3. Braising and Simmering
- Add the mixed braising sauce to the pot, bring to a boil, and then add the pork belly and chili peppers.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes, then add the pickled mustard greens.
- Cover and simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, then reduce heat to low and simmer for another 20 minutes (add 3 tablespoons of pickled cabbage water if desired).
Step 4. Finishing Touches
- Add green onions, turn off the heat, and sprinkle pepper.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- If you buy pickled cabbage from the market, rinse it again if it is too salty or sour.
- Adjust the amount of braising sauce to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of fish for Cá Kho Dưa Chua?
Yes! Firm, white-fleshed fish like catfish, basa, or snapper work well. Avoid overly delicate fish that might fall apart during cooking.
2. Where can I find pickled mustard greens (dưa chua)?
Many Asian grocery stores carry pickled mustard greens. If unavailable, you can try making your own, though it requires some time for pickling.
3. How can I adjust the sweetness and sourness of the dish?
Taste the stew as it simmers. Adjust the amount of sugar for sweetness and the amount of pickled mustard greens or vinegar for sourness to your preference.
With its harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, Cá Kho Dưa Chua is a true testament to the artistry of Vietnamese cooking. This recipe, while seemingly simple, offers a rewarding culinary experience perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this traditional dish, and savor the taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in your own home.