Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet Chinese restaurant experience! This Sweet and Sour Whole Fish recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines tangy, sweet, and savory notes in one stunning dish. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat your family to an extraordinary meal, this recipe promises to be your new go-to showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole fish (about 2 lbs)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the whole fish. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make three diagonal cuts on each side of the fish to help it cook evenly and allow the marinade to penetrate.
- Season the fish generously with salt and pepper, ensuring to rub it into the cuts and inside the cavity.
- In a bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved to create the marinade.
- Place the fish in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over it, making sure to coat both sides. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- While the fish is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips and set them aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, stir-frying for about 3-4 minutes until they are slightly softened but still crisp. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the marinated fish. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. If necessary, you can cover the skillet to help cook the fish evenly.
- Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Add the pineapple chunks and the stir-fried vegetables to the skillet, pouring in the remaining marinade. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through.
- Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the fish, ensuring it is well-coated. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve the sweet and sour whole fish hot, accompanied by steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Fish Selection Matters: Choose a fresh, firm-fleshed fish like sea bass, red snapper, or grouper for the best results. The fish should have clear eyes and a fresh, ocean-like smell.
- Scoring Technique: When making diagonal cuts on the fish, ensure they're about 1/2 inch deep and evenly spaced. This helps the marinade penetrate and allows for more even cooking.
- Marination Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 15 minutes is the minimum, letting the fish sit for 30-45 minutes can significantly enhance the flavor absorption.
- Wok or Skillet Temperature: Maintain a medium-high heat to get a beautiful golden-brown exterior without overcooking the fish.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with the marinade before adding it to the skillet.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro, green onions, or sesame seeds can add a beautiful final touch and extra layer of flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: Always serve immediately to enjoy the crisp vegetables and the fish at its most succulent point.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 80mg
