chopped fish pieces with pepper

How to Make Steamed Fish with Chopped Chili: A Complete Guide

Steamed fish with chopped chili is a beloved Chinese dish known for its fresh, spicy, and umami-rich flavors. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to guide you.

Ingredients: 500g white fish fillets (like sea bass or tilapia), 3-4 tbsp chopped chili (store-bought or homemade), 2 tbsp minced garlic, 1 tbsp ginger, 2 scallions (sliced), 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp cooking oil, and salt to taste.

Steps:

1. Prep the fish: Rinse the fish fillets and pat dry. Score diagonally on both sides to help absorb flavors. Marinate with a pinch of salt and 1 tsp soy sauce for 15 minutes.

2. Make the chili sauce: Mix chopped chili, minced garlic, ginger, and 1 tbsp soy sauce in a bowl.

3. Steam the fish: Place the fish on a heatproof dish. Bring water to a boil in a steamer, then add the fish and steam for 8-10 minutes (depending on thickness) until tender.

4. Finish and serve: Remove the fish and drain excess water. Pour the chili sauce over it. Heat 1 tbsp cooking oil in a pan until hot, then drizzle over the fish. Add sesame oil and sliced scallions. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips: For extra fragrance, stir-fry the chili sauce briefly before pouring it over the fish. Adjust spiciness by adding more or less chopped chili. This dish highlights the fish’s natural taste while the chili adds a fiery kick, making it a perfect balance of heat and freshness. Enjoy!