| Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 8g | 1.5g | 5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 0g | 17g | 2.5g |
Why I Love Vietnamese Cá lóc hấp nước mắm
Vietnamese cuisine has always held a special place in my heart, and this recipe for Cá lóc hấp nước mắm, or snakehead fish steamed in fish sauce, is no exception. The first time I prepared this dish, I was instantly captivated by its harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The integration of simple, fresh ingredients like lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce creates a symphony on the palate that is both delicate and robust.
A Culinary Journey
Growing up in California with Gujarati roots, my culinary journey has always been about blending flavors and traditions. My husband Faisal, who shares my enthusiasm for exploring diverse cuisines, introduced me to the rich flavors of Vietnamese food. Vietnamese cooking emphasizes the freshness and balance of ingredients, much like the dishes I grew up with. This shared culinary ethos made recipes like Cá lóc hấp nước mắm natural fits for our dining table.
Recipe Inspiration and Similar Dishes
The inspiration for this recipe came from Chef Charles Phan, whose innovative takes on Vietnamese classics have always motivated me. I remember reading about his approach to traditional dishes, infusing them with modern twists but always maintaining the integrity of the original flavors. If you enjoy dishes like Thai steamed fish with lime and ginger or even Indian fish curry, you’ll likely appreciate the nuanced flavors of Cá lóc hấp nước mắm.
One of the things I adore about this recipe is its versatility. It pairs excellently with a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or a simple cucumber and carrot salad. These sides not only complement the main dish but also enhance its delightful complexity without overwhelming the palate.
In our household, food is more than just sustenance; it’s a bridge between cultures, an exploration of flavors, and a way to bring family and friends together. The Cá lóc hấp nước mắm is a beautiful representation of how a humble dish can become a culinary masterpiece when prepared with love and quality ingredients. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become a staple in your home just as it has in ours.
What You’ll Need
- 2.5 lbs snakehead fish (Cá lóc), cleaned and scaled
- 1/4 cup fish sauce (nước mắm)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced shallots
- 1 tablespoon minced lemongrass
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 fresh red chili peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
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Method
Step One
Rinse the snakehead fish thoroughly under cold water. Ensure it is cleaned and scaled properly. Pat dry with paper towels and set aside.
Step Two
In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, sugar, freshly ground black pepper, minced garlic, minced shallots, and minced lemongrass. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved to create the marinade.
Step Three
Place the fish in a large dish or a shallow bowl. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring that it is coated evenly. Let the fish marinate for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step Four
Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil in the bottom pot. Place the fish on a steaming tray or a heatproof dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the fish.
Step Five
Steam the fish for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
Step Six
While the fish is steaming, heat the vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the chopped scallions and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant.
Step Seven
Once the fish is cooked, carefully remove it from the steamer and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle the stir-fried scallions over the top.
Step Eight
Garnish the steamed fish with chopped cilantro, sliced red chili peppers, and a drizzle of lime juice before serving. Serve hot with steamed rice or as desired.
