This Crispy Fried Fish recipe offers a delightful and versatile twist to a classic dish. Traditionally made with ginger, this recipe introduces the option to use garlic or shallots, allowing you to enjoy a variety of flavors without repeating the same preparation. With the freedom to choose your preferred aromatic ingredient, this dish becomes a go-to option for a quick and delicious meal that will satisfy your taste buds.
Adding to the versatility of this recipe is the range of seafood options available. While the recipe features thick white fish fillets as the main ingredient, you have the flexibility to experiment with other seafood favorites like salmon, halibut, shrimp, or scallops. This allows you to tailor the dish to your liking and enjoy a variety of taste experiences.
The key to achieving the perfect crispiness lies in the deep-frying process, using neutral oils like grapeseed or corn to achieve that golden and crunchy exterior that encases tender and flavorful fish chunks. The aromatic ingredients – ginger, garlic, or shallots – are fried until lightly browned, adding a delightful fragrance and depth to the dish.
Now, let’s dive into the detailed instructions for creating this Crispy Fried Fish with Ginger, Garlic, or Shallots – a versatile and quick recipe that promises to be a hit on any dining table.
MAKES: 4 servings
TIME: 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- Neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn, for deep-frying
- 8 ounces ginger, garlic, or shallots, peeled and trimmed as needed and thinly sliced or chopped
- About 11/2 pounds thick white fish fillets, cut into large chunks
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 4 scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or nam pla (Thai fish sauce)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Put at least 2 inches of oil in a deep pot that will hold the fish chunks in one layer; bring to 350°F over medium-high heat.
- When the oil is hot, fry the ginger, garlic, or shallots until lightly browned, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a nearly constant temperature. This process will take 3 to 10 minutes, depending on the chosen aromatic ingredient and its cut.
- Meanwhile, sprinkle the fish with salt and pepper, and combine the flour and cornstarch in a bowl.
- Remove the fried ginger, garlic, or shallots with a slotted spoon and set them aside. Lightly dredge the fish in the flour-cornstarch mixture, tapping to remove any excess, and then carefully add the fish pieces to the hot oil, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Fry the fish, turning once or twice, until it is lightly browned and cooked through. The cooking time will be approximately 3 to 5 minutes, and you can test the doneness by checking that a skewer or thin-bladed knife passes through each chunk with little resistance.
- Remove the fried fish with a slotted spoon and drain it on paper towels.
- Briefly fry the scallions for 15 seconds and then remove them with a slotted spoon; drain them. Refry the ginger for about 30 seconds, then remove and drain.
- Arrange the fried fish on a plate and garnish it with the ginger and scallions. Drizzle with soy sauce or nam pla, and top with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of refreshing flavor.
Prepare to indulge in the delightful and aromatic flavors of this Crispy Fried Fish recipe. Whether you opt for the zing of ginger, the richness of garlic, or the sweetness of shallots, this dish promises to be a hit with your family and guests. The crispiness of the fish, combined with the fragrant aromatics and the umami kick of soy sauce or nam pla, creates a memorable dining experience that will leave everyone satisfied. Enjoy this easy-to-make and versatile dish that you can enjoy again and again without repeating yourself!
