fish with tomatoes

How to Make Tomato Poached Fish: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tomato poached fish, a beloved Chinese dish, combines tender fish with a savory, slightly sweet tomato broth. Here’s a simple recipe to recreate it at home.

Ingredients: 500g white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia), 2 ripe tomatoes, 1 ginger slice, 2 garlic cloves, 1 green onion, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, salt, pepper, 1 tbsp cooking oil, and water or broth.

Steps:

1. Prep the fish: Rinse fillets, pat dry, and marinate with 1/2 tsp salt, pepper, and 1 tsp soy sauce for 15 minutes.

2. Cook the tomato broth: Heat oil in a pot. Sauté ginger and garlic until fragrant. Add chopped tomatoes, cook until soft, then mash slightly. Pour in 2 cups water/ broth, add sugar, and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and remaining soy sauce.

3. Poach the fish: Gently place fish in the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes until the fish flakes easily.

4. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions. For extra heat, add dried chili peppers or Sichuan peppercorns.

Tips: Use ripe tomatoes for a richer flavor. Avoid overcooking the fish to keep it tender. Serve hot with steamed rice for a comforting meal. Enjoy this healthy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

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