Craving a dish that's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for Crispy Fried Salted Tilapia with Lemongrass! This vibrant dish combines the delicate sweetness of tilapia with the aromatic zest of lemongrass, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to succulent, flaky fish within, a perfect balance of textures that will leave you wanting more. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this dish is surprisingly simple, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
This recipe utilizes a simple yet effective technique to achieve perfectly crispy tilapia every time. The unique blend of seasonings enhances the natural flavor of the fish, while the lemongrass adds a sophisticated touch. Ready to experience the deliciousness for yourself? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create this amazing Crispy Fried Salted Tilapia with Lemongrass!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Pestle (optional)
- Frying pan
- Sieve
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Tilapia: 500g
- Lemongrass stalks: 4
- Chili peppers: 2
- Garlic cloves: 4
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- MSG: 1/2 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tilapia and Marinade
- Clean the tilapia thoroughly, removing the intestines and scrubbing off any green layer.
- Finely chop the chili peppers, garlic, and lemongrass (using a pestle and mortar for easier chopping).
- Make several cuts on both sides of the fish.
- In a bowl, combine salt, MSG, and turmeric powder. Mix well.
- Marinate the fish with the spice mixture, rubbing it evenly to ensure all parts are coated. Stuff some lemongrass into the cuts in the fish.
- Marinate the fish for 30 minutes.
Step 2. Fry the Tilapia
- Remove excess lemongrass from the fish, leaving the lemongrass inside the fish.
- Heat cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the fish gently over medium-low heat until golden and crispy on both sides, flipping occasionally.
- Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
Step 3. Fry the Aromatics
- Fry the remaining lemongrass, garlic, and chili until lightly golden. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Gently stir the fried lemongrass, garlic, and chili to remove excess oil.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Evenly spread the fried lemongrass, garlic, and chili over the fried fish.
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- Clean the fish thoroughly to remove any fishy smell.
- Don't add sugar to the marinade as it might burn during frying.
- Fry the fish over medium-low heat to ensure it's golden and crispy without burning.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying.
- Fry the lemongrass, garlic, and chili separately and then add them to the fish at the end. Don't fry them with the fish or they may burn.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of fish instead of tilapia?
Yes! Other firm, white fish like cod, snapper, or catfish would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the thickness of the fish.
2. How do I store leftover tilapia?
Store leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
This Crispy Fried Salted Tilapia with Lemongrass recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and burst of flavor—it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this easy-to-master culinary delight!