Craving a fiery, flavourful dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for Spicy Chilli Fish! This vibrant Chinese-inspired dish delivers a delicious punch of heat and umami, perfectly balancing crispy fish with a rich, intensely flavourful chilli sauce. Forget complicated techniques and expensive ingredients; this recipe uses readily available pantry staples to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. The result is a dish that’s both impressive and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Imagine succulent pieces of fish swimming in a fragrant, spicy sauce – a symphony of chillies, garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices. This recipe offers a simple yet effective method to achieve this culinary masterpiece. Ready to bring the heat? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide and create this unforgettable Spicy Chilli Fish together!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Boneless fish
- Garlic
- Black pepper
- Garam masala
- Tikka masala
- Red chilli powder
- Salt
- Green chilli sauce
- Red tomato sauce
- Soy sauce
- Lemon
- Refined flour (plain flour): 1 tablespoon
- Corn flour: 2 tablespoons
- Egg: optional
- Cooking oil
- Onion
- Ginger
- Orange pepper
- Green chilli
- Spring onion
- Vinegar
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prepare Fish
- Marinate the boneless fish with crushed garlic, black pepper, garam masala, tikka masala, red chilli powder, salt, green chilli sauce, red tomato sauce, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or 10 minutes if short on time).
- Mix refined flour and corn flour. Coat the marinated fish in the flour mixture. You can optionally add egg to the flour mixture.


Step 2. Fry the Fish
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the fish until golden brown. Fry on medium heat.

Step 3. Make the Spicy Gravy
- Sauté diced onions, julienned ginger, and chopped garlic in a pan until softened. Add orange pepper, green chilli, and spring onion.
- Mix tomato sauce, green chilli sauce, soy sauce, and vinegar in a bowl. Add this sauce mixture to the pan with the vegetables.
- Add water to create a gravy consistency. Thicken the gravy with a corn flour slurry (corn flour mixed with cold water).



Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Add the fried fish to the gravy, ensuring it is well coated. Simmer until heated through.
- Garnish with spring onions and serve hot with rice or paratha.


Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using white oil is recommended for better flavor in this Chinese dish.
- You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chilli sauce.
- This recipe is quick and easy, taking only around 10-15 minutes to prepare.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! Firm, white-fleshed fish like cod, tilapia, or snapper work well. Avoid overly flaky fish that might fall apart during cooking.
2. What if I don't like it too spicy?
Easily adjust the heat! Reduce the amount of chillies or use milder chillies like poblanos. You can also add a touch of sugar to balance the spice.
So there you have it – a simple yet incredibly flavourful Spicy Chilli Fish recipe that's sure to impress. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a more elaborate dinner party. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!