Sometimes, all you need is a simple, healthy, and absolutely delicious meal that’s light but packed with flavor. That’s exactly what this Steamed Fish with Spicy Lime and Garlic Sauce delivers. This dish is fresh, zesty, and just the right amount of spicy, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or a light dinner that will impress your guests. With a delicate, flaky white fish steamed to perfection and topped with a tangy, spicy sauce, it’s sure to become one of your favorites!
Ingredients
Let’s gather the
Ingredients
that will bring this flavorful dish together:
For the Fish:
2 white fish fillets (such as sea bass, cod, or tilapia) – Tender and flaky, these fish fillets are perfect for steaming.
1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds a salty, umami flavor that will enhance the fish.
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice – Brings a tangy brightness to the fish.
Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning the fish and bringing everything together.
For the Sauce:
3 cloves garlic, minced – A fragrant base to the sauce that gives it that savory depth.
1-2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced – These will give the sauce a nice kick! Adjust the number based on how spicy you like it.
2 tablespoons fish sauce – A must-have ingredient for that authentic, savory taste.
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice – Extra zing to complement the spicy heat.
1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds more umami and enhances the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon sugar – Just a touch of sweetness to balance the heat and tanginess.
2 green onions, thinly sliced – These add freshness and a slight oniony crunch to the sauce.
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – This vibrant herb adds brightness and freshness to finish off the sauce.
Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious steamed fish. It’s simple, straightforward, and quick enough for any night of the week!
1. Prepare the Fish:
Start by seasoning your fish fillets with soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Be sure to coat the fillets evenly. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to soak in all those flavors. This helps the fish become more flavorful before it’s steamed.
2. Steam the Fish:
Now, it’s time to steam the fish. Place the seasoned fish fillets in a steaming basket or on a heatproof plate, depending on what you have available. Set the basket or plate over a pot of boiling water, and cover it with a lid. Steam the fish for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns a beautiful, opaque white color.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
While the fish is steaming, you can whip up the spicy lime and garlic sauce. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, sliced chili peppers, fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth, tangy base.
Once that’s mixed together, add in the green onions and chopped cilantro. These will add a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to the sauce. Set the sauce aside and get ready for the next step!
4. Serve:
Once the fish is done, carefully transfer the steamed fish fillets onto a serving plate. Spoon the spicy lime and garlic sauce generously over the top of the fish. Don’t be shy here—it’s all about those layers of flavor!
For an extra pop of color and flavor, feel free to garnish with a little more cilantro and some extra sliced chili peppers. This will give the dish a beautiful finish and a little more heat for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
5. Enjoy:
The best part! Serve your Steamed Fish with Spicy Lime and Garlic Sauce immediately with a side of steamed rice or your favorite vegetables. The mild fish paired with the vibrant, spicy sauce is a match made in heaven. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Notes
Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds to lessen the heat.
Use Any White Fish: Feel free to swap the sea bass, cod, or tilapia with any white fish you love. Halibut, snapper, or even flounder would work wonderfully.
Make It a Meal: To turn this dish into a full meal, serve it alongside some steamed jasmine rice or sautéed veggies. A light stir-fry or some steamed broccoli would make the perfect complement.
Perfect for Prep: You can season the fish and make the sauce in advance. Just steam the fish right before serving. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for a day or two and used on any other fish or seafood dish.
Alternative for Fish Sauce: If you don’t have fish sauce, a mixture of soy sauce and a dash of lime juice can work as a substitute, though the flavor profile won’t be quite the same.
Nutrition
Let’s break down the
Nutrition
al content of this tasty dish (based on 4 servings):
Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
This dish is not only packed with protein from the fish, but it’s also low in carbs, making it a great option if you’re looking for something light and healthy. The fresh lime juice and cilantro provide tons of flavor without adding many calories, and the garlic and fish sauce give it a rich umami flavor.
Additional Information
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Recipe inspiration credits to the creator. 🌟
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