How to Make Thai-Style Fish with Spicy Herb Sauce
Thai-style fish is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of fish with the aromatic flavors of herbs and spices. Making this dish at home is surprisingly simple and requires a few key ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal. Below, discover how to make Thai-style fish with spicy herb sauce step-by-step.
Ingredients
To create this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 whole fish (snapper or sea bass), cleaned
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- For the Spicy Herb Sauce:
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
- 2-3 Thai bird chilies, chopped (adjust per taste)
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fish
Start by rinsing the whole fish under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Make three diagonal cuts on each side of the fish. This not only helps the fish cook evenly but also allows the flavors of the sauce to penetrate.
2. Season the Fish
Rub the salt all over the fish, including the cuts you made earlier. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Make the Spicy Herb Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, mint leaves, and Thai bird chilies. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. Pour this mixture over the herbs and chilies, and stir well to combine. This will be your delicious spicy herb sauce.
4. Cook the Fish
Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fish into the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the fish is cooked through and the skin is crispy. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the fish.
5. Serve
Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a minute. Serve the fish on a platter and generously drizzle the spicy herb sauce over it. For an authentic presentation, garnish with additional herbs and lime wedges.
Tips for Perfect Thai-Style Fish
- Feel free to experiment with different types of fish based on availability.
- Adjust the amount of chilies in the sauce to match your desired spice level.
- Pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
This Thai-style fish with spicy herb sauce is sure to delight your taste buds with its vibrant flavors. It's perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Enjoy this quick and healthy recipe!