Healthy Steamed Fish Recipe: If you’re looking for a simple and healthy dish that’s full of flavor and ready in less than 30 minutes, this steamed Swai fish recipe is just perfect! It’s tender, juicy, and very easy to make at home. With basic ingredients and an optional restaurant-style finish, you can enjoy a meal that feels like fine dining without stepping out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the main dish:
- 1 lb Swai fish fillets
- 3 oz ginger, cut into thin matchsticks (about 3 inches long)
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced (about 3 inches long)
- 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp Chinese rice cooking wine
- Cilantro for garnish (optional)
For the restaurant-style finish (optional):
- ½ oz ginger, thinly sliced
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- ¼ of a red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- ½ tbsp low sodium soy sauce
Easy Cooking Instructions
First, place the fish fillets on a large plate. Make sure the plate has a bit of depth because some liquid will come out when cooking. Place the plate into a steamer. If you don’t have a big steamer, just use a large pot with a steam rack and about 1 inch of water at the bottom.
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice cooking wine. Pour this sauce over the fish. Then, spread the sliced garlic, ginger, and scallions evenly on top.
Cover the steamer or pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Steam the fish for about 10 to 12 minutes until it’s fully cooked.
Once cooked, top the fish with fresh scallions and cilantro.
How to Make It Restaurant-Style
If you want to take the dish up a notch, try the restaurant-style finish. Heat sesame oil in a small skillet on high heat. Add the extra ginger, scallions, and red bell pepper. Stir quickly for just a few seconds so they lightly cook but stay fresh. Immediately pour this hot oil and toppings over the cooked fish. Serve hot and enjoy the burst of fresh flavors!
This easy steamed Swai fish is perfect for busy days when you want a healthy and tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh vegetables, you can bring out the best flavors in the fish.
Plus, the restaurant-style finish adds an extra touch of color and taste that will surely impress your family or guests. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy fish at home!
FAQs
What is Swai fish?
Swai is a type of freshwater fish known for its mild, slightly sweet flavor. It’s affordable, easy to cook, and commonly used in seafood dishes.
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily replace Swai with other white fish like tilapia, cod, or basa, and still get a delicious result.
Do I need a steamer to cook this fish?
No, you can also use a large pot with a steam rack and a plate to steam the fish perfectly at home.
Can I skip the restaurant-style finish?
Yes, the restaurant-style finish is optional. The fish already tastes great with just the basic steaming method.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish will turn white and flaky when it’s properly cooked. It usually takes around 10-12 minutes to steam, depending on its thickness.
