Craving a dish that's both incredibly flavorful and satisfyingly crunchy? Then prepare yourself for Crispy Laab Fish – a unique fusion of Thai and deep-fried goodness. This recipe takes the vibrant, herbaceous notes of traditional Laab and applies them to a perfectly crispy fillet of fish, creating a textural and aromatic experience unlike any other. Forget bland fish and chips; this recipe delivers a complex symphony of tastes, blending the zesty tang of lime, the subtle heat of chilies, and the fragrant freshness of mint and cilantro.
Imagine the satisfying crunch of the perfectly fried fish, giving way to a tender, juicy interior bursting with the explosive flavors of Laab. This dish is surprisingly simple to make, and the result is a culinary masterpiece that's guaranteed to impress. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide below.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Small fish (soft-fleshed): 350 grams
- Salt: A little bit
- Laab seasoning powder: 2-3 heaped teaspoons
- Crispy flour: 2 heaped tablespoons
- Old ginger: 3-4 slices
- Cooking oil
- Fried garlic
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Fish
- Wash and clean the fish thoroughly. Drain the water and sprinkle with a little salt.
- Add 2-3 heaped teaspoons of Laab seasoning powder (depending on your preference).
- Add 2 heaped tablespoons of crispy flour and mix well.



Step 2. Fry the Fish
- Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium-low heat.
- Add 3-4 slices of old ginger to the pan before adding the fish. This prevents sticking and reduces fishy smell.
- Gradually add the fish to the pan, one at a time, ensuring they don't clump together.
- Let the fish cook undisturbed until one side is golden yellow.




- Use a spatula to gently separate the fish.
- Flip the fish and fry the other side until golden brown and crispy.
- Ensure the fish is cooked through and crispy; a deep golden yellow color indicates readiness.
- Once cooked, remove the fish from the pan.




Step 3. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with crispy fried garlic.

Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; leave space for even cooking and crispiness.
- Using multiple pans can improve cooking time and ensure even crispiness.
- Observe the color of the fish; a deep golden yellow signifies perfect crispiness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! Firm, white-fleshed fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia work best. Avoid oily fish as they may not crisp up as well.
2. How can I make the fish extra crispy?
Ensure the fish is completely dry before frying. Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable or canola oil, and don't overcrowd the pan. A double-fry can also help achieve maximum crispiness.
3. What can I do if I don't have all the Laab ingredients?
Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preference or availability. The key flavors are lime juice, fish sauce, and chilies, so focus on getting those right. You can omit herbs if needed.
This Crispy Laab Fish recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional Thai flavors, resulting in a dish that's both exciting and easy to prepare. The perfect balance of crispy texture and vibrant Laab seasoning guarantees a memorable culinary experience. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this delicious and unique creation!