Irresistible Thai Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce: A Quick and Healthy Recipe
Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and one dish that truly embodies this is Thai Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also highlights the delicious balance of sour, savory, sweet, and spicy elements that Thai Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce is famous for. In this blog post, we will explore how to make this delightful dish, including essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for achieving the best results.
What is Thai Steamed Fish?
Thai Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce (Pla Kapong Neung Manao) is a traditional dish that features fish steamed to perfection and topped with a zesty lime sauce made from fresh ingredients like garlic, chilies, and fish sauce. This dish is often served with rice and is a staple in many Thai households. The combination of flavors creates a refreshing and aromatic experience that is both satisfying and healthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy Option: Steaming fish retains its nutrients while providing a light meal.
- Flavorful Sauce: The lime sauce adds a refreshing kick that elevates the dish.
Essential Ingredients for Thai Steamed Fish
To create the perfect Thai Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce, gather the following ingredients:
For the Fish:
- 2 whole sea bass (about 400g each, scaled and gutted) or 4 fillets
- 2 stalks lemongrass (bruised)
- 4 kaffir lime leaves
- 3 slices fresh ginger
For the Lime Sauce:
- 125 ml chicken stock
- 3 tablespoons palm sugar (or light brown sugar)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 red bird’s eye chilies (finely chopped)
- 60 ml freshly squeezed lime juice
- 50 ml fish sauce
- 10 g fresh coriander (finely chopped)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- If using whole sea bass, score the fish on both sides at 2 cm intervals.
- Stuff the belly cavity of each fish with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and ginger slices.
Step 2: Steam the Fish
- Place the fish in a large steaming dish or plate.
- Bring water to a boil in a steamer or large pot.
- Once boiling, place the steaming dish over the water and cover tightly.
- Steam for about 15-20 minutes for whole fish or 10-15 minutes for fillets until cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Lime Sauce
- In a small saucepan, bring chicken stock to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add palm sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Remove from heat and mix in minced garlic, chopped chilies, lime juice, and fish sauce.
- Stir in fresh coriander just before serving.
Step 4: Serve
- Carefully remove the steamed fish from the steamer.
- Discard any aromatics from inside the fish.
- Pour the lime sauce over the fish and serve immediately with steamed rice.
Tips for Perfecting Your Thai Steamed Fish
Choose Fresh Fish
Using fresh fish will significantly enhance your dish’s flavor. Look for firm fillets or whole fish with clear eyes and bright red gills.
Adjust Spice Level
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of bird’s eye chilies or omit them altogether.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Fresh herbs like basil or mint
Leftovers
Store any leftover steamed fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
This Thai Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers incredible flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. With its refreshing lime sauce and tender fish, it’s no wonder that this dish has become a beloved staple in Thai cuisine.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients today and embark on a culinary journey with this delightful Thai Steamed Fish recipe! Enjoy every flavorful bite!