Chinese toon fish recipe

How to Make Crispy Toon Fish (香椿鱼儿)

Toon Fish, a beloved spring delicacy, transforms tender toon leaves into a crispy, savory treat. Here’s a simple guide to mastering this dish.

Ingredients: Fresh toon leaves (50g), flour (100g), cornstarch (30g), egg (1), water (150ml), salt (1/2 tsp), baking powder (1/2 tsp). Oil for frying.

Steps:

1. Prepare the Batter: Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder. Whisk in the egg and water until smooth. The batter should be thick but pourable.

2. Coat the Toon: Dip each toon leaf into the batter, ensuring even coverage. Shake off excess.

3. Fry to Perfection: Heat oil to 170°C (340°F). Fry coated leaves in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

4. Drain and Serve: Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle with salt or a pinch of five-spice powder while hot.

Tips: For extra crunch, add rice flour to the batter. Use young, vibrant toon leaves for the best flavor. Serve immediately as a snack or side dish.

This crispy, aromatic Toon Fish captures spring’s essence in every bite—simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious!