Why Make This Recipe
Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is a fresh and healthy dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with delicious tastes that will impress your family and friends. Steaming the fish keeps it moist and tender, while the lime and garlic marinade adds a zesty kick. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a lighter meal.
How to Make Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 red chili, finely sliced
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions
- Rinse the white fish fillets under running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix the lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, granulated sugar, and grated ginger. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
- Arrange the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, coating each fillet evenly. Let the fish marinate at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Transfer the marinated fish and all the marinade liquid into a steaming dish. Sprinkle the sliced red chili and half of the chopped cilantro over the fillets.
- Place the steaming dish into a preheated steamer. Steam the fish for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fillets are opaque and can be flaked easily with a fork.
- Carefully take the dish out of the steamer and garnish with the remaining cilantro before serving.
How to Serve Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish
Serve the Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish hot, with steamed rice or a fresh salad on the side. The light and zesty flavors make it an excellent choice for a light lunch or dinner. You can also serve it with extra lime wedges for added freshness.
How to Store Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish
If you have any leftovers, store the fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently steam or microwave the fish until warmed through to keep its flavors intact.
Tips to Make Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish
- Make sure not to over-marinate the fish, as the lime juice can start to "cook" the fish, leading to a mushy texture.
- Handle the fish gently while transferring to the steaming dish to avoid breaking the fillets.
- For extra flavor, add some sliced bell peppers or vegetables to the steaming dish.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by using different types of fish or adding other herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili or omit it altogether.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and steaming.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can marinate the fish ahead of time, but it’s best to steam and serve it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish?
It pairs well with jasmine rice, noodles, or a simple green salad with a light dressing.
Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish
Ingredients
For the marinade
- 2 limes 2 limes, juiced and zested
- 4 cloves 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red chili 1 red chili, finely sliced
- 1 bunch 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped Reserve half for garnish
For the fish
- 4 fillets 4 fillets white fish such as cod or tilapia
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the white fish fillets under running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix the lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, granulated sugar, and grated ginger. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
- Arrange the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, coating each fillet evenly. Let the fish marinate at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes.
Steaming
- Transfer the marinated fish and all the marinade liquid into a steaming dish. Sprinkle the sliced red chili and half of the chopped cilantro over the fillets.
- Place the steaming dish into a preheated steamer. Steam the fish for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fillets are opaque and can be flaked easily with a fork.
- Carefully take the dish out of the steamer and garnish with the remaining cilantro before serving.