splashing oil on fish

How to Make Sizzling Fish with Hot Oil

Sizzling Fish with Hot Oil is a beloved Chinese dish known for its crispy skin, tender flesh, and aromatic, spicy flavors. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients: Fresh fish (like sea bass or tillet, 500g), 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 1 tsp sugar, 3-4 dried chilies, 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 tbsp chopped scallions, and 4 tbsp cooking oil.

Steps:

1. Prepare the fish: Clean and score the fish diagonally on both sides. Marinate with 1 tbsp soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar for 15 minutes.

2. Steam the fish: Place the fish on a heatproof dish. Steam for 8-10 minutes over high heat until the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily.

3. Make the sauce: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a small pan. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir for 30 seconds.

4. Sizzle: Pour the remaining oil into a saucepan and heat until smoking (about 180°C). Quickly drizzle the hot oil over the fish, followed by the chili-garlic sauce.

5. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped scallions and serve immediately with steamed rice.

The key to perfection is using fresh fish and piping hot oil to release the aromatics. Enjoy the crispy, spicy, and savory delight!