Craving a flavorful and satisfying Thai dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for Crispy Fried Carp with Garlic & Pepper! This vibrant, aromatic dish delivers a delightful textural contrast: crispy, golden-brown carp skin against tender, flaky flesh. The simple yet powerful garlic and pepper sauce perfectly complements the richness of the fish, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Forget complicated techniques and expensive ingredients; this recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.
We'll use readily available ingredients to achieve authentic Thai flavors, resulting in a dish that's both impressive and incredibly delicious. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide below!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Frying pan
- Strainer
Ingredients
- Carp
- Garlic: 2 cloves (Thai garlic)
- Pepper
- Fish sauce: 1/2 ladle
- Seasoning powder: 1 tablespoon
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Carp and Marinade
- Clean and prepare the carp. Remove scales and score the fish deeply to make incisions to help break down the bones when cooking, making it easier to eat. (This helps prevent bones from getting stuck in your throat).
- Pound garlic and pepper thoroughly.
- Marinate the carp with pounded garlic, pepper, fish sauce, and seasoning powder. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Step 2. Fry the Carp
- Heat oil in a frying pan.
- Fry the carp in batches until golden brown on both sides. Because we only have enough oil for 2 pieces per pan, we keep frying until the other side is cooked.
Step 3. Fry the Garlic and Strain
- Fry the garlic in the same oil until golden yellow. Use a strainer to remove any black residue from the fish.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the fried carp with the fried garlic.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Scoring the fish helps it cook more evenly and makes it easier to eat.
- Using Thai garlic adds a unique flavor to the dish.
- Don't overcook the garlic, or it will burn.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-300
- Fat: 10-20g
- Carbs: 5-10g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish instead of carp?
Yes! Other firm, white-fleshed fish like tilapia, catfish, or snapper will work well. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the thickness of the fish.
2. How do I ensure the carp is crispy?
Pat the fish very dry with paper towels before frying. Use a high enough temperature oil (around 350°F/175°C) and don't overcrowd the pan. This allows for even browning and crispiness.
3. Can I make the garlic and pepper sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made several hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
This Crispy Fried Carp with Garlic & Pepper recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and bold taste of this authentic Thai dish, perfect for any occasion. Now go ahead and impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!