| Prep: 45 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 347 | 9g | 2g | 63g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 39g | 6g | 22g | 1.2g |
Why I Love Thai Crispy Fish with Green Mango Salad
If there’s one thing which unites my life-changing culinary experiences in Atlanta and Nigeria, it’s fusion. Fusion is at the heart of every recipe I cherish, and the Crispy Fish with Green Mango Salad precisely illustrates why this is so. This Thai recipe celebrates a vibrant blend of textures and flavors, reflecting my appreciation for food which not only nurtures the body, but uplifts the spirit, too.
The Harmony of Flavors
I love the elegance of the Crispy Fish with Green Mango Salad. Treat your taste buds to the exciting interplay between the sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes. Each bite is a surprising transition from the crunchiness of the fish to the refreshing tang of the salad. This dish is reminiscent of Vietnamese Gỏi Xoài (mango salad), providing a wonderful excursion into the diverse flavors of Asia.
The Intersection of Health and Indulgence
Another aspect of the recipe that I appreciate is how it satisfies cravings without compromising on healthy eating. My culinary philosophy is all about creating meals that are fulfilling without inducing guilt. The mango salad, composed mostly of nutrient-rich vegetables, is balanced beautifully by the indulgence of the crispy fish which is fried to perfection.
Inspired by Experts
This dish was inspired in part by renowned Thai chef Ian Kittichai. His ability to honor traditional Thai cuisine while experimenting with global flavours has always intrigued me. Like him, I also believe in the power of fusion in food, creating dishes that pay homage to several cuisines without losing the essence of each.
To complement this meal, why not try a dish from the culinary traditions of Laos such as a warm Laos chicken soup? The gentle, warming nature of the soup pairs wonderfully with the vibrant Crispy Fish with Green Mango Salad, making for a satisfying, balanced meal.
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to pairings — after all, the joy of cooking is in experimentation. So, I encourage you to make this recipe your own by trying different variations and combinations until you find your perfect blend of flavors.
What You’ll Need
- For the salad:
- 3 Unripe (green) mangoes
- 1 Small red onion
- 3 tablespoons Lime juice
- 1 tablespoon Fish sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sugar
- 1 cup Fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup Fresh mint leaves
- 3 Thai or serrano chiles, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup Unsalted roasted peanuts
- For the fish:
- 6 Fish fillets (such as snapper or bass), about 6 ounces each
- Salt and Pepper to season
- 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups Club soda
- Vegetable oil for frying
Method
Step One
Firstly, you need to make the salad. Peel the green mangoes and cut them into thin strips. Cut the red onion into thin half-rounds.
Step Two
Take a small bowl and mix the lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
Step Three
In a bowl, mix the mangoes, onions, herbs, and chiles. Pour the lime juice mixture over the mango salad and toss it well. Let it sit at room temperature to marinate for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Right before serving, mix in the peanuts.
Step Four
Now, on to the fish. Sprinkle the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
Step Five
In a shallow dish, mix the flour with cornstarch. Gradually whisk in the club soda until evenly combined to a thin batter.
Step Six
In a large frying pan, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Step Seven
Dip the seasoned fish fillets one by one into the batter, letting the excess drip off, and add to the hot oil. Fry the fish until crisp and golden brown on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
Step Eight
Using a slotted spatula, transfer the fried fish onto paper towels to drain.
Step Nine
Plate the crispy fish and serve it hot with the green mango salad on the side or over the top. Enjoy your Crispy Fish with Green Mango Salad!
