Delicious Crispy Fish in Fiery Chili Sauce Recipe
Have you ever had that craving for something crispy and spicy, but don’t want to order takeout or go to a fancy restaurant? Look no further! I present to you my recipe for Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce.
This dish pairs perfectly with steaming hot rice, with its crispy exterior and savory chili sauce. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will definitely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
With ingredients easily accessible from your local grocery store and straightforward instructions, even beginner cooks can make this recipe with ease. Say goodbye to boring fried fish and welcome in a flavorful explosion of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
So grab your apron, turn up the heat, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a dish that is packed with flavor, easy to make and perfect for any occasion? How about a dish that features crispy fried fish slathered in a mouthwatering chili sauce? Look no further than this crispy fish in chili sauce recipe.
What makes this recipe truly special is its unique combination of heat and sweetness. The savory garlic, sharp ginger and tangy tomato sauce provide a complex base, while the sweet chili and soy sauce offer a delicious balance. And when it’s all combined and poured over the crispy whole fried fish, it’s nothing short of perfection.
This dish pairs perfectly with rice, noodles or even by itself as an appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to spice up your weeknight meals, this crispy fish in chili sauce recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredient List
Before we get started on this crispy fish in chili sauce recipe, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients on hand.
Main Ingredients:
- White fish fillets: You can use any firm white fish like sea bass or snapper.
- Sweet chili sauce: You can find sweet chili sauce at most supermarkets. Alternatively, you can make your own by mixing 2 tablespoons of sambal chili paste with 2 cups of tomato sauce and 1/4 cup of sugar.
- Soy sauce: I prefer to use low-sodium soy sauce.
- Dry sherry: It adds depth to the dish.
- Garlic cloves: Minced or finely chopped.
- Green ginger, roughly chopped: Use a sharp knife or a grater for the ginger.
- Cornflour and plain flour: Used for coating the fish before frying.
For the Sauce:
- Chili garlic sauce: A combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
- Tomato sauce: Any brand will do.
- Sugar: Will add just a touch of sweetness.
- Water
For Deep Frying:
- Vegetable oil: Used for deep-frying.
Optional garnishes:
- Sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions.
Feel free to double the quantities if you want to cook more portions.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Begin with perfectly fried fish
The key to making this dish is starting off with crispy, perfectly fried fish. I recommend using a firm white fish such as sea bass or snapper. To get that crispy texture, pat the fish fillets dry and dredge them through cornflour and plain flour. Then, deep fry them in oil until they turn golden brown. Once the fish is done, remove it from the oil and place it on a cooling rack to drain any excess oil.
Step 2: Make the chili sauce
While the fish cools down, it’s time to make the spicy and tangy chili sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté garlic cloves and green ginger until fragrant. Then, add 2 cups of water along with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of dry sherry, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a mixture of chili sauce and tomato sauce (proportions can be adjusted according to personal preference). Cook the sauce for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Coat the fried fish with sweet chili sauce
Now that your chili sauce is ready, it’s time to coat your perfectly fried fish fillets with it and serve hot! You can either coat them by placing them in a bowl and generously pouring over the sweet chili sauce or arranging them on a large platter and drizzling over top before serving.
And voila! You now have an amazing dish to enjoy with family and friends.
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch up the flavor profile of this crispy fish in chili sauce recipe? Luckily, there are many variations and substitutions that can be made to tailor this dish to your tastes.
For a milder version of the dish, consider using less chili sauce or swapping it out for sweet chili sauce. This will give you a subtle sweetness with fewer spicy undertones.
If you prefer a more tangy and sour taste, try incorporating tamarind paste or lime juice into the sauce. This will add a refreshing acidity that pairs well with the crispy fish.
You can also experiment with different types of fish for this recipe. While white fish like sea bass or snapper are traditionally used, you can also try making this dish with whole fried fish or even grilled fish.
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, tofu or tempeh can easily replace the fried fish in this recipe. Simply cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and deep fry until golden brown before tossing in the chili sauce.
Finally, for an extra kick of heat, add some chili garlic sauce or three-flavored sauce to the mixture. These sauces are known for their bold flavors and will give your dish an extra level of complexity.
No matter how you choose to customize this recipe, make sure to keep its core elements intact. The combination of crispy fish and sweet-and-spicy chili sauce is what makes this dish truly unforgettable.
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve achieved a perfectly crispy and fragrant fish in chili sauce, it’s time to serve this delicious dish in the most mouth-watering way.
Because of the spicy, savory nature of the sauce, your best bet is to pair it with simple sides that will highlight and balance those flavors. A fluffy steamed rice or even a bowl of chewy noodles should do the trick nicely. But if you want something a little more complex, I recommend going for a fresh green salad with bright, citrus-based dressing. The acidity will cut through the richness of the fish and chili sauce without overpowering them.
If you crave something crunchy to go alongside your crispy fish, try some fried wontons, vegetable spring rolls or some stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or broccoli. They’re effortless to prepare and will add some texture to every bite.
For a full-on Thai feast that involves lots of family-style sharing and plenty of flavors to choose from, serve your crispy fish in chili sauce alongside other Thai favorites such as pad thai or tom kha gai soup. This way, everyone can load their plates with different dishes and enjoy a well-rounded meal together.
And don’t forget the drinks! A crisp lager like Singha Beer pairs perfectly with these spicy dishes, but if you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, iced tea or Thai-style lemonade with fresh herbs should do just fine.
Whatever you serve with your crispy fish in chili sauce recipe, make sure everyone has a big appetite because they’re going to want seconds!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce Recipe can be made ahead of time if you are planning to serve it for a large gathering. The fried fish stays crispy when kept in an oven safe dish, covered with foil and held in a warming oven at a low temperature. This will allow the fish to remain warm without getting soggy or losing its crispiness.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the fish on a cooling rack over a baking sheet and bake in the oven preheated to 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. This method ensures that the fish stays crispy by allowing air flow to circulate around the fish and prevent moisture from building up.
Alternatively, you can reheat leftover Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce on the stovetop by adding some oil to a pan over medium heat and placing the cold fried fish directly into the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Avoid using high heat to prevent burning or overcooking of the fish.
To keep fried food crispy, it is recommended not to reheat too many times as it would become less crispy with each reheating process. It is best served fresh out of the pan but if you do have leftovers or want to make ahead, these tips will help keep your Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce tasty and crunchy.
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the ideal result when cooking Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce, follow these essential tips to perfect your dish.
Firstly, to keep the fried fish crispy, place it on a cooling rack once it’s done cooking. This technique prevents the steam from condensing on the surface of the fish and thus helps maintain its crispiness for longer.
Secondly, coat the fish with a mixture of cornflour and plain flour before frying it in oil. This combination provides an extra layer of crispiness to the fish. When frying, use enough oil and deep fry until the fish turns golden brown that will help to seal in the flavor.
Thirdly, make sure that your oil is at the right temperature. If it’s too cold, the fish will absorb more oil, making it greasy instead of crispy. If it’s too hot, the coating will cook too fast while leaving the inside undercooked. Use an oil thermometer or simply test a small piece of batter in your oil before adding all of the fish.
Furthermore, when making chili sauce, combine chili sauce with sweet chili sauce or tomato sauce for creamy flavor that won’t overpower your fried fish. It brings a balance of spicy and sweet with a hint of sourness that complements and elevates crispy fried fish, specifically white fish.
Finally, serve immediately to maintain its crisp texture and serve with rice along with vegetables such as broccoli stir fry or sautéed green beans to have nutrition variety.
If you’re following these tips closely, you’ll be on your way to cook the perfect Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce recipe every time!
FAQ
Before we conclude this recipe article, let’s take a moment and address some of the frequently asked questions about this Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce recipe. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, it’s always helpful to have answers to common questions to ensure your meal is a success. So, let’s dive right in and clear up any uncertainties you may have before starting your culinary journey with this delicious recipe.
Why do you put flour on fish before frying?
One of the benefits of coating fish with a layer of batter or breading is that it creates a satisfying and crunchy texture while also absorbing flavors from the cooking oil. Additionally, coating can prevent delicate fish meat from disintegrating during the frying process.
How do you keep fried fish crispy?
If you’re looking to eliminate excess oil from your fried seafood, there’s an ingenious trick you can try out. Instead of using paper towels or a plate, grab a cooling rack – the same one you use to cool off baked goods. Place it over a cookie sheet and let the rack do its magic. The excess oil will drip onto the sheet, while the fish will stay delightfully crispy. It’s a simple solution that will leave you and your guests happy.
How do you keep battered fish crispy in the oven?
For those of us who love fried food, keeping it crispy is key. One trick is to place the fried deliciousness on a cooling rack that is set over a baking sheet. To make sure everything stays warm while you fry multiple batches, simply pop the rack and sheet into a low temperature oven. This way, you can keep frying without worrying about your food losing its all-important crunchiness.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce Recipe is a flavorful and exciting addition to any seafood lover’s recipe collection. With its perfect blend of spices and sauces, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a fan of sweet chili or chili garlic sauce, this recipe has got you covered. And with its versatile serving options, it can be paired with a variety of sides or enjoyed as a main dish.
So why not embrace your inner culinary explorer and give this recipe a try? With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of fish or variations on the sauce.
At the end of the day, cooking is all about having fun and trying new things. So go ahead and dive into this recipe – you might just discover your next favorite meal!
Crispy Fish in Chili Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g fish fillets
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1/3 cup cornflour
- 1 egg white
- 3/4 cup water
- oil (for deep-frying)
SAUCE
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon grated green ginger
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/3 cup chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons dry sherry
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- The strength of the chili sauce will effect how hot this dish is.
- I recommend a sweet chili sauce for those who don't like it too hot.
- Place oil, ginger, garlic, tomato sauce and chili sauce in a pan on medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients and let it simmer on low for a few more minutes.
- Leave the sauce to sit while you prepare the fish.
- Chop the fish into approximately bite-size pieces.
- Sift the flour and cornflour into a bowl.
- Make a well in the flour and add the egg white and water.
- Mix to a smooth batter.
- Coat the pieces of fish with the batter.
- Heat oil in large pan and dip the fish into the oil.
- Cook the pieces for a few minutes each (cook many at a time).
- Heat the sauce back up.
- Once the fish is all cooked add the sauce to the fish in a large frying pan.
- Serve when hot.
- Enjoy.
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.