Sweet and sour fish is a classic dish renowned for its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. The sweet and tangy sauce perfectly complements the delicate flakiness of the fish, creating a delightful culinary experience. Many shy away from cooking fish due to concerns about a lingering fishy smell, but this recipe offers foolproof techniques to ensure your dish is both delicious and odor-free. We'll guide you through simple steps to achieve perfectly cooked fish with a sauce that's both bright and balanced.
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and straightforward methods, making it accessible to even novice cooks. We'll share our secrets for removing any unpleasant fishy smell, leaving you with a dish that's sure to impress. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below and create a truly unforgettable sweet and sour fish.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Basin or Tray
- Basket
- Bowls
- Frying Pan
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Red Tilapia
- Ginger
- Beer: 250ml
- Salt
- Flour: 2/3 cup (100g)
- Tapioca Starch: 1/2 cup (50g)
- Eggs: 2
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Water: 4 tablespoons
- Tomato Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chili Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic
- Onion
- Green Onions
- Sesame Seeds (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate the Fish
- Cut the ginger into thin strips for marinating the fish.
- Prepare the fish (red tilapia). Clean the fish thoroughly, removing scales, intestines, blood, fins, and tail. Make three light cuts at a 45-degree angle to create larger scales for better marinade absorption.
- Place the fish in a basin, add ginger, 250ml of beer, and a little salt. Rub the mixture evenly onto the fish to remove the fishy smell, paying attention to the belly, gills, and slits.
- Put the fish in a basket to drain; do not rinse.
Step 2. Coat and Fry the Fish
- Mix 2/3 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of tapioca starch, and the remaining beer until dissolved.
- Add 2 beaten eggs to the flour mixture.
- Coat the fish evenly with the flour mixture, ensuring the gills, belly, and slits are covered.
- Heat oil in a pan. Fry the fish over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
Step 3. Prepare and Cook the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Mix soy sauce, sugar, water, tomato sauce, pepper, and chili sauce.
- Heat a little oil in a pan. Saute garlic, onion, and green onions until fragrant.
- Add the sauce mixture and cook until it boils. Pour the hot sauce over the fried fish.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions (optional).
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Rubbing the fish with ginger, salt, and beer effectively removes the fishy smell.
- Using beer in the batter makes the fish crispier and fluffier.
- Ensure the flour mixture coats the entire fish for even cooking and a crispy texture.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 600-700
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. How do I remove the fishy smell from the fish?
Properly cleaning and scaling the fish is crucial. Soaking it briefly in milk or lemon juice before cooking helps neutralize odors.
2. What type of fish is best for this recipe?
Firm, white-fleshed fish like cod, tilapia, or snapper work well. Avoid overly oily fish.
3. Can I make the sweet and sour sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be prepared several hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.
This sweet and sour fish recipe proves that creating a restaurant-quality dish at home is achievable and enjoyable. With its simple steps and flavorful outcome, it's a perfect recipe for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy the delicious results and the satisfaction of mastering a new culinary skill!