Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is a simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings the freshness of Thai cuisine straight to your table. The combination of lime, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce creates a tangy, savory marinade that enhances the delicate flavor of the fish without overwhelming it. Steaming the fish ensures it stays moist and tender, while the fresh cilantro and chili garnish add a pop of color and a touch of heat. Whether you’re a fan of Thai flavors or just looking for a healthy and easy meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Ingredients

Fillet and Marinade

• 4 fillets white fish (such as cod or tilapia)
• 2 limes, juiced and zested
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

Garnish

• 1 red chili, finely sliced
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a small bowl, combine the lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and grated ginger. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is well-mixed.
2. Marinate the Fish:
   • Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
   • Let the fish marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Steam the Fish:
   • Set up a steamer or a pot with a steaming rack. Bring a few inches of water to a simmer in the bottom of the pot.
   • Place the marinated fish fillets in the steamer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cover and steam for about 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the steamer and place it on serving plates.
   • Garnish with freshly sliced red chili and chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish with steamed rice or your favorite vegetable sides. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. The total preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with an additional 15-30 minutes for marinating and 8-10 minutes for steaming.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more sliced red chilies or a dash of chili flakes to the marinade if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Vegetable Addition: Steam some vegetables, like bok choy or asparagus, in the same steamer as the fish for a complete meal.
• Coconut Milk: For a richer flavor, you can add a few tablespoons of coconut milk to the marinade for a subtle creamy texture.
• Different Fish: While cod and tilapia are great options, you can also use other white fish like snapper, sole, or haddock.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, steam the fish again for 2-3 minutes or heat it gently in the microwave. Be sure not to overheat to maintain its delicate texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating and steaming.

2. Can I use a different type of fish?

You can use other mild white fish, like sole, flounder, or haddock, for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

3. Can I cook the fish in the oven instead of steaming?

Yes, you can bake the fish at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily. However, steaming ensures the fish stays tender and moist.

4. How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. For a more accurate result, use a food thermometer to check for a temperature of 63°C (145°F).

5. Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, the marinade can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Marinate the fish when you’re ready to cook.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

For more heat, increase the amount of red chili in the garnish, or add chili paste or sriracha to the marinade.

7. Can I use a different type of sauce instead of fish sauce?

While fish sauce provides an authentic, umami-rich flavor, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a little bit of oyster sauce for a similar depth of flavor.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served immediately after cooking, you can prepare the fish, marinade, and even steam it in advance. Reheat the fish gently before serving.

9. How can I make this dish more filling?

Serve the Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish over a bed of rice or quinoa, or pair it with sautéed vegetables to create a more substantial meal.

10. Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes, fresh ginger is actually preferred for this recipe, as it adds a bright, aromatic flavor. Just grate it finely to mix into the marinade.

Conclusion

The Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is a flavorful, aromatic, and healthy dish that perfectly balances savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. The steaming method keeps the fish moist and tender, while the marinade infuses it with delicious Thai-inspired spices. Topped with fresh cilantro and chili, it’s a refreshing and vibrant meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish is sure to become a new favorite for seafood lovers and Thai food enthusiasts alike!

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