Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and relatively quick dinner that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand? Then look no further! This Thai Red Snapper recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This recipe highlights the fresh, clean taste of red snapper, enhanced by the aromatic symphony of Thai flavors. Prepare for a culinary adventure that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to execute.
Ingredients: You'll Need These for a Delicious Meal
This recipe serves two and takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook.
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For the Red Snapper:
- 2 (6-ounce) red snapper fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
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For the Thai Red Curry Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, for garnish
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
Instructions: Cooking Your Thai Red Snapper
Let's get cooking! These simple steps will guide you to a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and coconut milk until smooth. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped chili (if using).
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Cook the Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red curry sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
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Add Vegetables: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced green bell pepper to the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
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Cook the Fish: Gently place the red snapper fillets into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the fish in batches.
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Serve: Once cooked, garnish the red snapper with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with steamed rice, for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This is an excellent example of healthy meals done right!
Tips for the Best Thai Red Snapper
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red curry paste to control the spice level. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Fish Quality: Use fresh, high-quality red snapper fillets for the best flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked fish will be dry and tough. Cook the fish just until it’s opaque and flakes easily.
- Rice Pairing: Serve this dish with steamed jasmine rice to absorb the delicious sauce.
Variations: Explore Different Flavors
This recipe is a great foundation, feel free to experiment! Add other vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or snow peas. You could also use other types of white fish like cod or halibut. For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of peanut butter.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This delicious and healthy Thai Red Snapper recipe is a great option for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful dinner. It’s an easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights, offering a burst of exotic flavors in your own kitchen. Try it today and impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!