How to Make Thai-Style Deep-Fried Fish with Tamarind Sauce
Thai-style deep-fried fish with tamarind sauce is a delightful dish that combines crispy fish with a tangy, sweet sauce. This popular dish is known for its vibrant flavors and is perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering. Follow these steps to create this delicious Thai treat in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To make Thai-style deep-fried fish with tamarind sauce, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole fish (such as tilapia or snapper, cleaned and scaled)
- 1 cup rice flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for deep frying
For the Tamarind Sauce:
- ¼ cup tamarind paste
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 red chili (finely chopped, optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Start by patting the fish dry with paper towels. This helps ensure the fish will crisp up nicely when fried. Use a sharp knife to make a few diagonal cuts on both sides of the fish. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the flesh and helps it cook evenly.
Step 2: Season the Fish
Season the fish generously with salt and pepper, ensuring that it is evenly coated both inside and out. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and cornstarch. This mixture will create a light, crispy coating for the fish. Dredge the marinated fish in the flour mixture, ensuring it's well coated on all sides.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Use enough oil to submerge the fish about halfway. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.
Step 5: Fry the Fish
Carefully place the coated fish into the hot oil. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and let it drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Prepare the Tamarind Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the tamarind paste, water, sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped red chili (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust the sweetness and sourness to your taste by adding more sugar or lime juice as desired.
Step 7: Serve
To serve, place the deep-fried fish on a platter and drizzle the tamarind sauce over it. Garnish with fresh cilantro. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice and fresh vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Thai-Style Deep-Fried Fish
- Ensure the fish is very dry before frying for a crispier texture.
- Experiment with different types of fish based on your preference.
- Adjust the spice level of the tamarind sauce by adding more or fewer chilies.
- For added crunch, you can mix in some sesame seeds with the flour coating.
Enjoy your homemade Thai-style deep-fried fish with tamarind sauce, a dish that brings the flavors of Thailand to your table!