Why Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions is a Great Idea
Steaming is a healthy and easy way to cook fish, and this recipe for Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Ginger and scallions are classic Chinese flavorings that pair perfectly with fish, and the soy sauce and Shaoxing wine add a depth of umami flavor. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Ingredients
- 1 whole fish, about 1kg, scaled and gutted
- 2 inches ginger, sliced into matchsticks
- 4 scallions, sliced into 2-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Clean the fish and pat dry with paper towels. Season the fish with salt and pepper inside and outside the fish.
- Place the fish on a heatproof plate that will fit inside your steamer. Scatter the ginger and scallions on top and inside the fish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and vegetable oil. Pour the mixture over the fish.
- Fill a wok or pot with water and bring to a boil. Place the plate with the fish in the steamer basket and carefully place the basket over the boiling water.
- Cover the steamer with a lid and steam the fish for about 15-20 minutes or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Carefully remove the steamer basket from the pot and transfer the fish to a serving platter. Garnish with additional scallions, if desired.
Variations
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute the fish with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of water to steam it. Use the same seasonings and garnishes as the original recipe.
- Spicy: Add sliced chili peppers or chili oil to the soy sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Citrusy: Add sliced lemon or lime to the ginger and scallions for a bright and fresh flavor.
- Garlic: Add chopped garlic to the ginger and scallions for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions is a classic Chinese dish that is both healthy and delicious. It’s a perfect choice for a quick and easy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party dish. This recipe is easy to customize, so feel free to experiment with different seasonings and garnishes to make it your own. Give it a try and enjoy!
FAQ
What type of fish is best for steaming?
Any white fish with a mild flavor will work great for steaming. Some popular choices include sea bass, snapper, and tilapia.
Do I need a steamer to make this dish?
Yes, you will need a steamer to cook the fish. If you don’t have a steamer, you can improvise one by placing a heatproof plate on top of a pot of boiling water.
Can I substitute the ginger with another ingredient?
Ginger is a key ingredient in this recipe, but if you don’t like the taste you can try substituting it with garlic or lemongrass.
How do I know when the fish is done steaming?
The fish is cooked when the flesh is white and flakes easily with a fork. You can also check the internal temperature with a thermometer, which should be at least 145°F.
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
What should I serve with steamed fish?
Steamed fish pairs well with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables. You can also add a soy sauce or chili sauce for extra flavor.
Can I use other types of seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of seafood such as shrimp or scallops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may cook faster than fish.
Can I prepare the fish ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the fish just before serving, as it can dry out if left to sit for too long. However, you can prepare the ginger and scallion sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the steamer?
To prevent sticking, line the steamer basket with parchment paper or lettuce leaves before adding the fish. You can also lightly oil the steamer basket.
Can I use other herbs or spices in the ginger and scallion sauce?
Yes, you can experiment with other herbs and spices such as cilantro, chili flakes, or sesame oil to add extra flavor to the ginger and scallion sauce.
