Steamed fish with garlic black bean sauce is a classic Cantonese dish known for its delicate balance of flavors and incredibly simple preparation. This recipe showcases the fresh, clean taste of the fish, perfectly complemented by the savory depth of the black bean sauce and the pungent aroma of garlic. It’s a healthy, elegant meal that’s surprisingly quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy cooking times; this dish is all about letting the quality ingredients shine.
The beauty of steamed fish lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to take center stage. This recipe focuses on achieving a perfect balance of textures and tastes, from the tender, flaky fish to the vibrant, flavorful sauce. Ready to learn how to create this delicious dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Steamer
Ingredients
- Snapper fish fillet: 1 kg
- Garlic: 5 cloves
- Ginger: 5-6 grams
- Black bean paste: 1 tablespoon
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Light soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1/3 teaspoon
- Chili padi (optional): 1, julienned
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sauce and Marinate the Fish
- Chop garlic and ginger. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic, ginger, black bean paste, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Mix well.
- Score the fish fillet to allow the marinade to penetrate easily. Spread the sauce evenly over the fish.
- If desired, julienne a chili padi and sprinkle it over the fish for extra spiciness.
- Let the fish marinate for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2. Steam the Fish
- Bring water to a boil in a steamer. Place the fish in the steamer, cover, and steam over medium-high heat for 15 minutes.
Step 3. Serve
- Remove the fish from the steamer and serve with rice.
Read more: Easy Steamed Tofu with Shallot Sauce Recipe - Vegan Delight
Tips
- For a reunion dinner, consider using a whole fish.
- This dish pairs well with porridge or rice.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What type of fish is best for steaming?
White, flaky fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia work best. They steam quickly and remain tender.
2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The garlic black bean sauce can be prepared several hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
3. How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish is cooked when it's opaque and flakes easily with a fork. It usually takes about 8-10 minutes depending on the thickness.
This simple yet elegant recipe for steamed fish with garlic black bean sauce is a testament to the beauty of letting fresh ingredients speak for themselves. The delicate flavors and quick preparation make it a perfect weeknight meal, guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!