Indulge in the delicate flavors of Steamed Pomfret with Banh Chan Rau Dia Am Dem, a Vietnamese culinary masterpiece. This recipe elevates the simple act of steaming fish to an art form, showcasing the pristine freshness of the pomfret against the vibrant backdrop of Banh Chan Rau Dia Am Dem – a delicious, savory crêpe-like pancake filled with fragrant herbs and mushrooms. The subtle sweetness of the fish is perfectly complemented by the earthy undertones of the accompanying pancake, creating a harmonious symphony of textures and tastes. Prepare yourself for a truly authentic Vietnamese dining experience.
This exquisite dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, and its elegant presentation belies its ease of creation. Ready to learn how to craft this culinary gem? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and bring this delightful Vietnamese steamed pomfret to your table.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Mortar and pestle
- Steamer
- Bowl
- Plate
Ingredients
- White Pomfret (Saltwater Pomfret): 500g
- Fish mint
- Herbs
- Cucumber
- Watercress
- Lettuce
- Green onions: 50g
- Coriander: a little
- Rice paper
- Fish sauce: 1 bottle
- Lemon: 1
- Chili peppers: 2
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Ginger: 20g
- Sugar
- Salt
- Ground pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pomfret and Ingredients
- Clean and wash the pomfret. Let it drain.
- Wash and prepare the vegetables (fish mint, herbs, cucumber, watercress, lettuce, green onions, coriander).
- Cut the green onion stems into 6-7cm lengths. Cut the onion heads into small pieces for pureeing.
- Cut the cucumber into strips.
- Score the pomfret with diagonal lines to help with marinating and cooking.
- Peel, wash, and thinly slice the ginger.
- In a bowl, combine the pureed onion heads, ginger, sugar, salt, pepper, and fish sauce. Mix well and coat the pomfret evenly, including the inside.
Step 2. Marinate and Steam the Pomfret
- Marinate the fish for 20 minutes.
- Place the marinated pomfret on a plate, pour remaining marinade over it, and steam over boiling water for 15 minutes.
Step 3. Make the Dipping Sauce
- Grind chili and garlic until smooth. Add fish sauce, sugar, and lemon juice to taste.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with coriander.
- Serve with rice paper and fresh herbs.
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Buy fresh pomfret for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of sugar in the dipping sauce to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish instead of pomfret?
Yes, you can substitute with other firm white fish like snapper, sea bass, or cod. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the thickness of the fish.
2. What can I substitute for the dipping sauce ingredients if I don't have them?
Feel free to experiment! A simple soy sauce, lime juice, and chili garlic sauce mixture can work well. You can also use store-bought fish sauce.
This Steamed Pomfret with Fresh Herbs & Dipping Sauce recipe delivers a healthy, flavorful, and elegant meal perfect for any occasion. The delicate sweetness of the pomfret paired with the vibrant herbs and zesty dipping sauce creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated dish!