Delicious Thai Steamed Fish Recipe with Lime and Garlic

Delicious Thai Steamed Fish Recipe with Lime and Garlic

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. About the Dish: Steamed Barramundi (Pla Kapong Neung Manao)
3. Ingredients
4. Instructions: How to Make Steamed Barramundi
5. Tips and Tricks for Cooking Steamed Barramundi
6. Variations of Steamed Barramundi
7. Health Benefits of Steamed Barramundi
8. Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
9. Where To Find Barramundi Fish
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the delicious world of Thai cuisine and learn how to make a classic Thai dish called Steamed Barramundi (Pla Kapong Neung Manao). Originating from Thailand, this dish is not only easy to make but also bursting with amazing flavors. We will discuss the ingredients needed, step-by-step instructions, and provide tips and tricks for cooking the perfect steamed barramundi. Additionally, we will explore variations of the dish, health benefits, serving suggestions, and where to find barramundi fish. So, let's dive into the mouthwatering world of steamed barramundi!

About the Dish: Steamed Barramundi (Pla Kapong Neung Manao)

Steamed Barramundi, also known as Pla Kapong Neung Manao, is a classic Thai dish that is a staple in seafood restaurants across Thailand. This dish is loved for its simplicity, yet amazing flavors. The main ingredient of this dish is barramundi fish, which is a Type of sea bass known for its firm and flaky texture. The dish is steamed to perfection, allowing the delicate flavors of the fish to shine through. The key ingredients of the dish include garlic, chili, fish Sauce, lime Juice, and cilantro, which together Create a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients

To make steamed barramundi, You will need the following ingredients:

1. Barramundi fish (whole or fillets)
2. Garlic
3. Chilies
4. Chicken stock
5. Palm sugar
6. Fish sauce
7. Lime juice
8. Cilantro
9. Chinese celery (optional, for garnish)

Instructions: How to Make Steamed Barramundi

Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let's dive into the step-by-step instructions on how to make steamed barramundi:

1. Begin by preparing the garlic. Mince a generous amount of garlic using a sharp knife.
2. In a saucepan, heat up the chicken stock. The better the stock, the better the flavor of the dish.
3. Add palm sugar to the broth to round off the flavors. Allow the sugar to dissolve and bring the broth to a boil.
4. Once the broth is boiling, add the minced garlic and sliced chilies. The heat of the broth will help infuse the garlic and soften its sharpness.
5. Add fish sauce and a generous amount of lime juice to the broth. This will give the dish its tangy and savory flavors.
6. Finely chop cilantro and add it to the sauce.
7. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavors according to your preference. It should have a balanced and vibrant taste, combining sweetness, spiciness, and sourness.
8. Prepare the barramundi fish by scoring it. This helps the broth penetrate the fish and also speeds up the cooking process.
9. Place lemongrass in the belly of the fish to enhance its aroma and remove any fishy smell.
10. Steam the barramundi fish until the flesh is flaky and cooked through. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the fish.
11. While the fish is steaming, prepare a platter with Chinese celery as a base for serving the fish.
12. Once the fish is cooked, carefully transfer it to the prepared platter.
13. Pour the flavorful sauce over the fish, making sure to cover it generously.
14. Garnish with additional cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips and Tricks for Cooking Steamed Barramundi

• Use fresh and high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavors of the dish.
• Be generous with garlic and chilies to give the dish an aromatic and spicy kick.
• Adjust the sweetness and sourness of the sauce according to your taste preferences.
• Score the fish to allow the broth to penetrate and speed up the cooking process.
• Check for doneness by lifting the flesh with a fork. If it easily lifts off the bone, the fish is cooked through.
• Serve the dish on a platter with Chinese celery as a base for an attractive presentation.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro for added aroma and flavor.

Variations of Steamed Barramundi

• Spicy Steamed Barramundi: Add extra chilies or use spicier chili varieties to make the dish extra hot and spicy.
• Lemongrass-infused Steamed Barramundi: Increase the amount of lemongrass used in the recipe to infuse the fish with additional aroma and flavor.
• Steamed Barramundi with Ginger: Add sliced ginger to the sauce for a refreshing and fragrant twist.
• Steamed Barramundi with Coconut Milk: Instead of using chicken stock, substitute it with coconut milk for a creamy and tropical flavor profile.

Health Benefits of Steamed Barramundi

Steamed Barramundi not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers several health benefits. Barramundi fish is rich in protein, low in calories, and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. This dish is also packed with garlic, which has antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. The presence of chilies adds a spicy kick and may help boost metabolism. Overall, steamed barramundi is a nutritious and wholesome dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments

Steamed Barramundi is a versatile dish that can be served as the main course for a family dinner or a special occasion. Here are some serving suggestions and accompaniments that pair well with steamed barramundi:

• Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice: The flavorful sauce of the dish complements well with plain steamed rice or fragrant coconut rice.
• Stir-fried vegetables: Serve the fish alongside a medley of colorful and lightly seasoned stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
• Thai spicy salads: Add a refreshing and tangy touch to the meal by serving Thai spicy salads such as Som Tum (green papaya salad) or Yum Woon Sen (spicy Glass noodle salad).
• Steamed vegetables: Steam a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and bok choy to add more texture and a healthy element to the meal.
• Thai dipping sauces: Prepare different Thai dipping sauces such as Nam Jim Jaew (spicy dipping sauce) or Nam Prik (chili dip) as condiments for an extra burst of flavors.

Where to Find Barramundi Fish

Barramundi fish can be found at seafood markets, fishmongers, or online seafood suppliers. It is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, and many supermarkets and specialty grocery stores also carry frozen or fresh barramundi fillets. If you have access to a local fish market or seafood restaurant, it is recommended to Inquire about the availability of barramundi fish.

Conclusion

Steamed Barramundi, with its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients, is a dish that truly exemplifies the beauty of Thai cuisine. From the delicate and flaky texture of the fish to the aromatic and tangy sauce, every bite is a burst of flavor. With the help of this article, you can now confidently recreate this classic Thai dish in your own kitchen. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or a lover of Thai food, steamed barramundi is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, don your apron, Gather the ingredients, and embark on a culinary Journey to Thailand with this delightful dish.