Are you craving a healthy and flavorful meal that’s surprisingly quick to prepare? Look no further! This Steamed Fish Hong Kong Style recipe is a testament to the magic of simple cooking. This easy recipe delivers a burst of fresh flavors, showcasing the delicate sweetness of the fish while highlighting the vibrant notes of ginger, scallions, and soy sauce. It's a perfect weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch option, or even an impressive dish for a dinner party. Get ready to experience the authentic taste of Hong Kong in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb white fish fillet (cod, snapper, or tilapia work well), skin on or off
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice wine (Shaoxing wine is ideal, but dry sherry can be substituted)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 inch ginger, thinly sliced
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced (reserve some for garnish)
- 1-2 red chilies, thinly sliced (optional, for added heat)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillet dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better steam and prevents it from becoming watery. Place the fish on a heatproof plate that fits comfortably inside your steamer.
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Season the Fish: Drizzle the fish with half of the soy sauce and rice wine. Gently spread it evenly over the fillet.
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Add Aromatics: Arrange the ginger slices, scallions, and chilies (if using) over the fish. A little minced garlic adds a lovely depth of flavor, too.
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Steam the Fish: Place the plate with the fish into a steamer basket set over a pot of boiling water. Ensure the water level doesn't touch the bottom of the steamer. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillet.
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Finishing Touches: Once cooked, carefully remove the steamed fish from the steamer. Drizzle the remaining soy sauce over the fish. Garnish with the reserved scallions and cilantro (if using).
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Serve Immediately: This dish is best served immediately while it's still hot and steaming. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Steamed Fish:
- Choose the Right Fish: Firm, white fish fillets are best for steaming as they hold their shape well.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked fish will be dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around 8 minutes and adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of your fillet.
- Use a Heatproof Plate: This is crucial for safe and even steaming.
- Keep it Simple: The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different aromatics but don't overcrowd the fish.
Variations:
- Add Mushrooms: Shiitake or oyster mushrooms add a delicious umami flavor to the dish.
- Spice it Up: Add more chilies or a pinch of Sichuan peppercorns for extra heat.
- Citrus Twist: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors beautifully.
- Soy Sauce Variation: Use light or dark soy sauce depending on your preference. Dark soy sauce will add a richer color and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a healthy and delicious option. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the type of fish used and the portion size. However, you can expect a serving to contain roughly:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 5-7g
This Steamed Fish Hong Kong Style recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or health. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish – a true testament to homemade cooking and the best recipes that are both simple and satisfying.