Why You’ll Love This Garlic Fish Recipe
When you try this garlic fish recipe, you’ll discover a delightful explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
I love how the combination of garlic and ginger creates a fragrant aroma that fills my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.
The tender fish absorbs the savory spices, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.
Plus, it’s quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights.
I can whip it up in no time and serve it hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and spring onions.
Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients of Garlic Fish
When it comes to whipping up a delightful dish like garlic fish, the ingredients are where the magic begins. Each component adds its own special touch, creating a symphony of flavors that make your meal unforgettable. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to create this savory delight.
Don’t worry if you’re not a pro in the kitchen; with a few fresh ingredients and a little love, you’ll be serving up a dish that impresses everyone at the table.
Here’s what you’ll need for the garlic fish recipe:
- 250 g white fish fillets, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped spring onion, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soya sauce)
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons red chili paste or 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder (cayenne)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon oil
Now, while gathering these ingredients, think about freshness. Fresh fish makes a world of difference; it’s tender, flavorful, and just plain better than that frozen stuff lurking in your freezer.
If you can, visit a local fish market. The aroma of the sea and the vibrant colors of the fresh catch can be quite tempting.
And don’t stress if you can’t find a specific ingredient—feel free to substitute here and there. For instance, if you’re out of fish sauce, soy sauce works just fine.
The goal is to make it work with what you have on hand, and trust me, it’ll still be delicious. Plus, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. Wouldn’t you agree?
How to Make Garlic Fish
Making garlic fish is a delightful journey that starts with marinating the fish. Grab your 250 grams of white fish fillets, cut into 1-inch chunks, and toss them into a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of ginger paste and 1 teaspoon of garlic paste, along with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix them up and sprinkle in 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt.
You want those flavors to soak in, so cover the bowl and let it hang out in the fridge for a couple of hours while you daydream about the amazing meal you’re about to create.
Once your fish has marinated and absorbed all those delicious flavors, it’s time to heat things up. In a wok (or a large frying pan if you don’t have a wok), pour in 1 tablespoon of oil and get it nice and hot. Add 1 tablespoon of chopped ginger and 2 tablespoons of chopped garlic, letting them sizzle for about 2 minutes.
The aroma will start to waft through your kitchen, and you might find yourself doing a little dance. Now, sprinkle in 1 1/2 teaspoons of red chili paste (or chili powder if that’s your jam) and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Stir it all together, and then toss in your marinated fish along with 1/2 cup of chopped spring onions and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce (or soy sauce if you’re in a pinch).
Cook everything on high heat for about 2 minutes, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the fish is fully cooked and the gravy is reduced.
You might need to uncover it for a minute towards the end to get rid of any excess moisture. Once it’s ready, spoon the garlic fish onto your serving plate and garnish it with some fresh cilantro and extra spring onions.
And just like that, you’ve got a dish that’s bursting with flavor. So, grab a fork and dig in—because you deserve it!
Garlic Fish Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic garlic fish recipe, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate the dish even further.
For instance, I sometimes swap the white fish for salmon or shrimp, giving it a richer flavor. If I want a bit of sweetness, I’ll add a spoonful of honey or brown sugar to the marinade.
Instead of spring onions, I’ve used chopped bell peppers for crunch and color. To spice things up, I’ve replaced chili powder with fresh chopped jalapeños.
Each variation adds a unique twist, making the dish exciting every time I prepare it!
Additional Tips & Notes
Here are a few essential tips to enhance your garlic fish dish. First, marinate the fish longer if you can; it really boosts the flavors.
When cooking, keep an eye on the heat—too high can dry the fish out. I love adding a splash of white wine during the sauté for extra depth.
Don’t skip the fresh cilantro; it brightens the dish! If you enjoy heat, adjust the chili paste to your liking.
Finally, serve with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal, and happy cooking!