braised perch

How to Cook Braised Sea Bass: A Step-by-Step Guide

Braised sea bass, a beloved Chinese dish, delights with its tender flesh and savory sauce. Here’s a simple yet authentic recipe to recreate it at home.

Ingredients: 1 fresh sea bass (about 500g), 3 slices of ginger, 2 scallions (cut into sections), 2 tbsp cooking oil, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 1 tsp sugar, a pinch of salt, and 200ml water or stock.

Steps:

1. Prep the fish: Clean the sea bass, score both sides diagonally, and pat dry. Rub with a pinch of salt and ginger to remove any fishy odor.

2. Sear the fish: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Carefully place the fish in the wok, sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, then set aside.

3. Make the sauce: In the same wok, sauté ginger and scallions until fragrant. Add light/dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar, stirring to mix well.

4. Simmer: Return the fish to the wok, pour in water/stock, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, basting occasionally.

5. Finish: Uncover, increase heat slightly to thicken the sauce, then drizzle over the fish. Garnish with extra scallions and serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips: For extra flavor, add a dried chili or a splash of vinegar. Ensure the fish is fresh for the best texture. Enjoy this restaurant-quality dish at home!