This recipe for Dad's Fried Fish Porridge is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special weekend brunch. It's a cherished family recipe, passed down through generations, and showcases the simple beauty of fresh ingredients elevated by a few clever techniques. The slightly crispy fried fish adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy, comforting rice porridge, creating a balanced and satisfying experience. Imagine the warm, savory broth, the flaky fish, and the delicate fragrance of ginger and scallions—a true taste of home.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to master, even for novice cooks. You'll learn how to expertly fry the fish to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Ready to create this delicious and heartwarming bowl of goodness? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Rice cooker (or pressure cooker, pot)
- Non-stick pan (or wok, stainless steel pan)
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- Rice: 1 cup
- Red Snapper (or Garupa, Pomfret, Salmon)
- Water
- Salt
- Light Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Cooking Oil
- Ginger
- Spring Onions
- Pepper
- Sesame Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rice and Fish
- Rinse 1 cup of rice several times until the water runs clear.
- Clean and pat dry the fish. Season with salt.
Step 2. Fry the Fish and Make the Sauce
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan. Pan-fry the fish until golden brown on both sides. Don't overcrowd the pan; fry in batches.
- Set aside some of the fragrant fish oil. Add light soy sauce to the remaining oil to create a flavorful sauce.
Step 3. Cook the Porridge and Add Fish
- Cook the rice in a rice cooker using the porridge function (or pressure cooker, or pot on stovetop).
- If using a rice cooker, continue cooking the porridge on quick cook until thickened, adding more water as needed. Keep the lid open to prevent splattering.
- Break the fried fish into smaller pieces, removing any bones.
- Add 2/3 of the fish pieces to the porridge.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with the remaining fish, ginger, spring onions, fragrant fish sauce, light soy sauce, pepper, and sesame oil.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- You can use different types of fish. Even frozen fish works well for frying.
- Don't move the fish while frying until the base is golden brown.
- For young children, carefully remove all bones from the fish.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-550
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before frying to achieve a crispy result.
2. What kind of fish is best for fried fish porridge?
Firm, white-fleshed fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia work well. Avoid overly oily fish.
3. How can I make the porridge thicker or thinner?
For thicker porridge, use less water or simmer longer. For thinner porridge, add more water or broth.
This easy recipe for Dad's Fried Fish Porridge is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with family and friends. The combination of crispy fish and comforting porridge creates a truly satisfying and delicious meal. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this cherished family recipe!