Singapore's vibrant hawker scene is renowned for its delicious and diverse dishes, and among them, the claypot fish reigns supreme. This iconic dish, simmered to perfection in an earthenware pot, offers a symphony of flavors—a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy notes. The rich, fragrant broth, infused with ginger, garlic, and a touch of chili, perfectly complements the tender, flaky fish, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious home cook, this dish is surprisingly accessible.
This recipe simplifies the process, allowing you to recreate the magic of Singaporean claypot fish in your own kitchen. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the ingredients to achieving that signature smoky char and perfectly balanced broth. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Clay pot or wok
- 32cm nonstick wok
- Dry plate
Ingredients
- Snapper (approx. 1kg)
- Light soy sauce: 1 tbsp
- Shaoxing wine (or omit): 1 tbsp
- Young ginger juice: 1 tbsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- White pepper: a few dashes
- Egg tofu (approx. 150g)
- All-purpose flour
- Cooking oil
- Ginger (thumb-sized): 1
- Yellow onion: 1
- Dried shiitake mushrooms: 4
- Roast pork (approx. 150g)
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Spicy broad bean paste: 1 1/2 tbsp
- Soy bean paste: 1/2 tbsp
- Water: 1.2L
- Oyster sauce: 1 tbsp
- Chicken stock powder: 1 tsp
- Dark soy sauce: 1 tbsp
- Carrots (approx. 20g)
- Chinese cabbage (approx. 160g)
- Sugar: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Cornstarch slurry
- Egg: 1
- Chinese cooking wine (or omit): 1 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prepare Ingredients
- Score the snapper, then add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine (optional), ginger juice, salt, and pepper. Rub the marinade in well and let it sit for 20 minutes.
- Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Gently place the tofu pieces in the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Coat the marinated fish in all-purpose flour, ensuring all sides are evenly covered. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
Step 2. Fry the Fish and Tofu
- Heat oil in the wok. Test if the oil is hot enough with a chopstick (bubbles should rise). Fry the fish for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 3. Prepare and Simmer the Sauce
- Heat oil in a clay pot. Add ginger, onion, mushrooms, roast pork, and garlic. Stir-fry until fragrant. Add spicy broad bean paste, soy bean paste, water, oyster sauce, chicken stock powder, and dark soy sauce. Bring to a boil.
- Add carrots to the pot. Bring to a boil, then add the fried fish, cabbage, and fried egg tofu. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasonings (add salt or sugar as needed). Thicken the sauce with cornstarch slurry. Add egg and Chinese cooking wine (optional). Turn off the heat and let it sit for a moment.
- Serve hot in the clay pot.
Read more: Authentic Cantonese Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using young ginger helps to enhance the flavor and remove any fishy smell.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when deep-frying the tofu or fish. This ensures even cooking and crispy results.
- All-purpose flour helps prevent splattering, creates a crispy coating, and helps the sauce adhere to the fish.
- A clay pot helps keep the dish warm and adds to the presentation.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What type of fish is best for Claypot Fish?
Firm, white fleshed fish like cod, snapper, or catfish work best. They hold their shape well during cooking and absorb the flavors beautifully.
2. Can I substitute ingredients?
Yes, feel free to adjust the chili level to your preference. You can also swap out certain vegetables based on availability and taste. For example, you can use bok choy or Chinese broccoli instead of kai lan.
3. How do I achieve that smoky char?
The smoky flavor comes from slightly charring the fish and vegetables before adding the broth. Use medium-high heat and ensure the ingredients have a light browning before adding the liquid.
With its fragrant broth, tender fish, and perfectly balanced flavors, this easy claypot fish recipe brings a taste of Singapore to your table. Enjoy the satisfying simplicity of this iconic dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound hawker skills!