Chinese cuisine

Introduction:
Stewed fish, also known as “kua dun yu” in Chinese, is a classic home-cooked dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a staple in many households. In this article, we will share a simple and straightforward recipe for stewed fish that you can easily follow at home.

Ingredients:

1. Fresh fish (such as carp or catfish), weighing around 1.5-2 pounds
2. 2-3 tablespoons of cooking oil
3. 1 large onion, sliced
4. 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
5. 1 inch of ginger, sliced
6. 1 teaspoon of salt
7. 1 teaspoon of white pepper
8. 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
9. 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
10. 1 teaspoon of sugar
11. 1 cup of water or fish broth
12. A few sprigs of green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Fish
First, clean the fish thoroughly and remove any scales or内脏 that may be left behind. Pat the fish dry with a paper towel and make several slits on both sides of the fish using a sharp knife. This will help the flavors to penetrate deeper into the fish.

Step 2: Seasoning the Fish
In a small bowl, mix the salt, white pepper, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Rub this mixture evenly over the fish and inside the slits you made earlier. Let the fish marinate for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cooking the Fish
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and sliced ginger. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Place the seasoned fish in the skillet or wok, making sure it’s lying flat. Cover the skillet or wok with a lid and let it steam for about 5 minutes. This step helps to cook the fish gently and infuse its flavor with the aromatics.

Step 4: Adding Liquid and Stewing
After 5 minutes, add the cup of water or fish broth to the skillet or wok. Make sure the liquid covers half of the fish’s body. Cover the skillet or wok again and let it simmer over low heat for another 10-15 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked through. You can check by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish; if it flakes easily, it’s ready.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
When the fish is done, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with sprigs of green onions (if using) and serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your delicious stewed fish!

Tips and Variations:

1. You can use different types of fish for this recipe, such as sea bass, snapper, or even salmon. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fish.
2. Instead of water or fish broth, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth to enhance the flavor further.
3. For a more aromatic dish, you can add a few whole spices such as star anise or bay leaves during the steaming process.
4. To make it a one-pot meal, you can add some vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking.
5. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it to the stewing liquid at the end of cooking. Stir until it thickens slightly before serving.
6. As a variation, you can also try braising the fish in a clay pot for an even more traditional flavor and texture.

Conclusion:
Stewed fish is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a great addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, this recipe for stewed fish will surely become a staple in your kitchen. So why not give it a try today and enjoy a taste of home-cooked comfort?