Chinese cuisine is known for its diverse and flavorful dishes, with a wide range of cooking techniques and ingredients. One popular dish that has gained popularity in recent years is the Chinese cold fish recipe. This dish is not only delicious, but it is also easy to make and perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will explore the history of this dish, the key ingredients, and a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
Main Ingredients: Fish, Cooking Oil, Pepper, Salt, Herbs, Lemons, Fresh
If you're looking for a delicious and unique way to prepare fish, look no further than this recipe for grilled whole fish with chili soy dipping sauce. The combination of smoky grilled fish and tangy, spicy sauce is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or dinner party.
To start, choose a firm, full-flavored fish such as snapper, sea bass, or trout. Clean and gut the fish, leaving the head and tail intact. Score the skin on both sides of the fish to help it cook evenly and absorb more flavor from the marinade.
In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, chili flakes, and freshly grated ginger. Pour the marinade over the fish and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the fish for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the skin is crispy and the flesh is opaque and flaky. Serve the grilled fish with the chili soy dipping sauce on the side for a delicious and impressive meal.
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Restaurant-style Chinese Steamed Fish
Main Ingredients: Fish, Ginger, Scallion, Cilantro Leaves, Cooking Oil
If you've ever been to a Chinese restaurant, chances are you've seen steamed fish on the menu. This dish is a classic in Chinese cuisine and is surprisingly easy to recreate at home. All you need is a steamer and some basic ingredients.
Start by choosing a whole fish, such as tilapia, sea bass, or flounder. Clean and pat dry the fish, then place it on a heatproof plate that will fit inside your steamer. Season the fish with salt, white pepper, and thinly sliced ginger. You can also add other herbs and spices such as star anise or spring onions for extra flavor.
Fill the steamer with water and bring it to a boil. Place the plate with the fish inside the steamer and steam for about 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish - it should flake easily.
In a separate pan, heat some oil until it is smoking hot. Carefully pour the hot oil over the steamed fish to create a sizzling and flavorful finish. Serve the steamed fish with soy sauce and sliced chili on top for a truly restaurant-style experience.
Hot pot is a popular Chinese cooking method where a communal pot of simmering broth is used to cook a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables. It's a fun and interactive way of eating that is perfect for gatherings and cold winter nights.
To make a Chinese hot pot, you will need a hot pot cooker or a large pot that can be placed on a portable burner. Fill the pot with a flavorful broth, such as a spicy Szechuan broth or a mild chicken broth. Arrange an assortment of thinly sliced meats and seafood, along with a variety of vegetables, on a platter for everyone to share.
Once the broth is simmering, everyone can start adding their desired ingredients to the pot to cook. The ingredients only take a few minutes to cook and can be eaten with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sesame sauce or hot chili oil. It's a fun and delicious way to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
If you're a fan of roasted fish, try this Asian-inspired version for a change of pace. The marinade for this dish is a combination of soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic, giving the fish a sweet and savory flavor with a hint of tanginess.
Pat dry a whole fish, such as salmon or cod, and place it in a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the fish and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the fish for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is cooked through.
To serve, sprinkle some sliced scallions and sliced red chili on top of the fish for added flavor and a pop of color. This roasted whole fish is perfect for a family dinner or a dinner party with friends.
Steaming is a popular cooking method in Chinese cuisine, and it works especially well for fish. The steaming process locks in moisture and results in a perfectly tender and flavorful fish every time.
To make Chinese steamed fish, choose a whole fish, such as sea bream, red snapper, or trout. Clean and pat dry the fish, then season it with salt and white pepper. Place the fish on a heatproof plate and top it with thinly sliced ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
Steam the fish for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is cooked through. In a separate pan, heat some oil until it is smoking hot. Pour the hot oil over the steamed fish to create a sizzling and flavorful finish. Serve the fish with soy sauce and sliced chili on top for a delicious and authentic Chinese steamed fish dish.
Soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine, and fish soup is no exception. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with a variety of ingredients, including fish fillets, vegetables, and Chinese herbs for added health benefits.
To make Chinese fish soup, start by making a flavorful broth with chicken broth, ginger, garlic, and Chinese cooking wine. Add in your choice of fish fillets, such as tilapia, cod, or salmon, along with an assortment of vegetables such as bok choy, cabbage, and carrots.
Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You can also add in some Chinese herbs such as goji berries or dried red dates for added flavor and health benefits. This Chinese fish soup is perfect for a cold day or when you're feeling under the weather.
If you're a fan of crispy and flavorful fried fish, you have to try this Chinese salt and pepper fish recipe. The fish is coated in a mixture of cornstarch, flour, and salt and pepper, then fried until crispy and golden brown. The result is a delicious and addictive dish that is perfect for sharing.
To make Chinese salt and pepper fish, start by coating fish fillets in a mixture of cornstarch, flour, and salt and pepper. Fry the fish in hot oil until it is crispy and cooked through. In a separate pan, sauté some garlic, ginger, and sliced red chili until fragrant. Toss the fried fish in the garlic and chili mixture, then serve hot.
This dish is best served with steamed rice and some stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also use this salt and pepper coating on other types of seafood, such as shrimp or squid.
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Ginger Soy Chinese Noodles
Main Ingredients: Fish, Rice Noodles, Crimini Mushrooms, Broccoli, Yellow
Noodles are a staple in Chinese cuisine and are often served as a side dish or main course. This recipe for ginger soy Chinese noodles is simple, yet flavorful, and can be made in under 30 minutes.
To make these noodles, cook your choice of noodles, such as lo mein or udon, according to package instructions. In a pan, sauté some garlic and ginger until fragrant, then add in the cooked noodles and toss with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
You can also add in your choice of protein, such as shredded chicken or tofu, and vegetables such as bok choy, carrots, and snow peas for a more filling meal. This ginger soy Chinese noodle dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
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Chinese Steamed Bass Fish
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Cooking Wine, Fish, Ginger, Green Onions
This recipe for Chinese steamed bass fish is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this popular type of fish. Clean and pat dry a whole bass fish, then season it with salt and white pepper. Place the fish on a heatproof plate and top it with thinly sliced ginger, sesame oil, and soy sauce.
Steam the fish for about 12-15 minutes, or until it is cooked through. In a separate pan, heat some oil until it is smoking hot. Pour the hot oil over the steamed fish to create a sizzling and flavorful finish. Serve the fish with soy sauce and sliced chili on top for a delicious and authentic Chinese steamed bass dish.
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Chinese Steamed Fish with Ginger and Shallots
Main Ingredients: Fish, Ginger, Shallots, Light Soy Sauce, Sugar, Water
This recipe for Chinese steamed fish with ginger and shallots is a classic and flavorful dish that is often served in Chinese households. The combination of ginger and shallots adds a fragrant and savory element to the dish.
Start by cleaning and patting dry a whole fish, such as tilapia or sea bass. Season the fish with salt and white pepper and place it on a heatproof plate. Top the fish with thinly sliced ginger and sliced shallots.
Steam the fish for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is cooked through. In a separate pan, heat some oil until it is smoking hot. Pour the hot oil over the steamed fish to create a sizzling and flavorful finish. Serve the fish with soy sauce and sliced chili on top for a delicious and authentic Chinese steamed fish dish.
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Chinese Steamed Fish With Ginger Paste
Main Ingredients: Fish, Spring Onions, Red Chili, Young Ginger, Shaoxing
This recipe for Chinese steamed fish with ginger paste is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic steamed fish dish. The ginger paste adds a spicy and aromatic kick to the dish, making it a favorite among spice lovers.
To make the ginger paste, blend together fresh ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt until it forms a smooth paste. Pat dry a whole fish, such as salmon or cod, and rub the ginger paste all over the fish.
Steam the fish for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is cooked through. In a separate pan, heat some oil until it is smoking hot. Pour the hot oil over the steamed fish to create a sizzling and flavorful finish. Serve the fish with soy sauce and sliced chili on top for a delicious and unique Chinese steamed fish dish.
Chinese fish soup, also known as 魚頭爐 (yú tóu lú), is a popular and nourishing dish in Chinese cuisine. It is often made with a variety of fish heads and bones, along with Chinese herbs and vegetables, resulting in a flavorful and nutrient-rich soup.
To make Chinese fish soup, start by making a broth with fish bones, fish heads, ginger, and garlic. Add in Chinese herbs such as goji berries and dried red dates, along with your choice of vegetables, such as bok choy, cabbage, and carrots.
Let the soup simmer for about 30-45 minutes, or until the broth is flavorful and the vegetables are tender. You can also add in some fish fillets for added protein. This Chinese fish soup is perfect for a cold day or when you're feeling under the weather.
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Chinese Rice Porridge (Sampan Congee)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Char Siu, Pork, Fish, Squid, Shrimp
Chinese rice porridge, also known as Sampan Congee, is a comforting and filling dish that is often eaten for breakfast or as a late-night snack. It is made with rice and water, simmered until it forms a creamy and thick porridge, and topped with a variety of savory ingredients.
To make Chinese rice porridge, start by cooking rice and water in a pot until the rice is soft and the mixture is thick and creamy. You can also add in some chicken broth for added flavor.
Top the rice porridge with an assortment of savory ingredients such as shredded chicken, tofu, peanuts, sliced green onions, and sliced century eggs. You can also add in some pickled vegetables or fried crullers for extra texture and flavor. This Chinese rice porridge is a comforting and delicious meal that is perfect for any time of day.
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Chinese Spicy Roast Fish (重庆烤鱼)
Main Ingredients: Sea Bass, Olive Oil, Fish, Chili Pepper Flakes, Cumin
The History of Chinese Cold Fish Recipe
Origin
The Chinese cold fish recipe, also known as "liang ban yu" in Mandarin, has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries. The dish originated from the Jiangsu province in China, where freshwater fish is abundant. It was initially served as a traditional dish during the summer months due to its refreshing and cooling properties.
Evolution
Over the years, the recipe has evolved and spread throughout China, with each region adding its own unique twist. In the Sichuan province, the dish is made with spicy chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns, while in Guangdong, it is served with a sweet and sour sauce. Today, the Chinese cold fish recipe has become a popular appetizer and can be found in many Chinese restaurants around the world.
Key Ingredients
1. Freshwater Fish
The key ingredient in this dish is freshwater fish, typically carp or catfish. These types of fish are readily available in China and have a mild taste that pairs well with the other ingredients.
2. Vegetables
A variety of vegetables such as cucumber, carrots, and radishes are commonly used in the dish. These vegetables not only add crunch and texture but also provide a refreshing element to the dish.
3. Seasonings
The seasoning for the Chinese cold fish recipe is what sets it apart from other fish dishes. A combination of soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili oil is used to create a balanced and flavorful sauce.
How to Make Chinese Cold Fish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Begin by cleaning and scaling the fish. Then, cut it into thin slices and marinate with salt and white pepper for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Blanch the Vegetables
In a pot of boiling water, blanch the vegetables for a minute or two until they are slightly soft but still have a crunch. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili oil to create the sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Place the blanched vegetables on a serving plate and arrange the fish slices on top. Drizzle the sauce over the fish and vegetables.
Step 5: Serve
The Chinese cold fish recipe is best served chilled, so place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. Garnish with some chopped green onions and enjoy!
In conclusion, the Chinese cold fish recipe is a delicious and refreshing dish that has stood the test of time. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is a perfect dish for any occasion. So why not try making it at home and experience the flavors of Chinese cuisine in your own kitchen?