Fried Dace with Eggplant is a classic Chinese dish, a harmonious blend of crispy, savory fish and tender, smoky eggplant. The seemingly simple combination delivers a surprisingly complex flavor profile, thanks to a masterful balance of sweet, salty, and spicy elements. This dish is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and a few well-chosen seasonings, transforming humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The contrast in textures – the delicate flakiness of the fried dace against the soft eggplant – creates a delightful eating experience.
This recipe focuses on achieving the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness in both the fish and eggplant. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the ingredients to achieving that irresistible golden-brown crust. Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- wok
- knife
- cutting board
- blender (optional)
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Cut eggplant in half lengthwise, then slice diagonally into 2/3 inch thick pieces. Rub with salt and set aside for 15 minutes.
- Cut chilies into bite-sized pieces. Mince ginger and garlic. Dice scallions.
- Open can of fried dace, remove fish, reserving oil and fermented black beans. Remove fish bones (optional).
- Squeeze excess moisture from salted eggplant, rinse, and squeeze again. Flip eggplant so skin side faces down.
Step 2. Cook the Eggplant and Fish
- Preheat wok over medium heat. Add oil from dace can. Add eggplant and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add ginger, garlic, chilies, fermented black beans, and fish meat. Stir over low heat until fragrant. Combine everything.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Taste and adjust seasoning with fish sauce if needed. Add diced scallions and mix well.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve with white rice.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Rubbing eggplant with salt softens it and prevents it from being firm and undercooked.
- Flipping the eggplant skin-side down helps retain the purple color during cooking.
- Every brand of fried dace has a different sodium level; taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Where can I buy fresh dace?
Asian grocery stores and some specialty fish markets are the best places to find fresh dace. Check with your local fishmonger if you're unsure.
2. Can I use frozen dace instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before frying to achieve the crispiest results. You might need to adjust cooking time slightly.
3. What can I substitute for dace if I can't find it?
Other small, firm white fish like tilapia or trout can be used as a substitute, although the flavor profile will be slightly different.
From spicy Sichuan delights to savory Cantonese classics, we've explored the versatility of fried dace in four distinct and delicious recipes. These dishes showcase the simple elegance of authentic Chinese cuisine, proving that extraordinary flavor can come from humble ingredients. We hope you enjoy experimenting with these recipes and discovering your new favorite fried dace dish!