Indulge your senses with this vibrant and flavorful recipe for Crispy Fried Sea Bass with a zesty 3-Flavor Chili Sauce. This dish elegantly balances the delicate sweetness of the sea bass with the fiery kick of a homemade chili sauce, creating a culinary experience that's both satisfying and unforgettable. The crispy, golden-brown skin of the sea bass contrasts beautifully with the bright, aromatic sauce, making it a perfect centerpiece for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. Imagine the succulent fish, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor, paired with fluffy rice and your favorite sides.
This recipe offers a simple yet effective method for achieving perfectly crispy skin and tender, flaky fish. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the sea bass to creating the complex yet surprisingly easy three-flavor chili sauce. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Sea bass
- Chinese garlic: 7 cloves
- Red and green chili peppers: 15
- Vegetable oil
- Coconut sugar: 4 tablespoons
- Granulated sugar: 3 tablespoons
- Fish sauce: 2.5 tablespoons
- Concentrated tamarind juice: 4.5 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sea Bass and Chili Sauce Ingredients
- Chop garlic and chili peppers.
- In the same pan, add the chopped garlic and stir-fry until cooked and fragrant.
- Add the sliced chili peppers and stir-fry.
- Add coconut sugar, granulated sugar, fish sauce, and concentrated tamarind juice. Simmer until boiling and thick.
Step 2. Deep Fry the Sea Bass
- Heat the pan until it smokes. Add vegetable oil, enough to cover the fish.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sea bass and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides. If needed, scoop oil and spread evenly over fish.
- Remove the fish and set aside to drain.
Step 3. Cook the 3-Flavor Chili Sauce
- In the same pan, add the chopped garlic and stir-fry until cooked and fragrant.
- Add the sliced chili peppers and stir-fry.
- Add coconut sugar, granulated sugar, fish sauce, and concentrated tamarind juice. Simmer until boiling and thick.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Pour the chili sauce over the fried sea bass.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Fry the fish in very hot oil to prevent sticking and ensure crispiness.
- The chili sauce should have a balance of sour, sweet, and salty flavors.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish?
While sea bass works best for its delicate flavor and firm texture, you can try other firm white fish like cod or snapper. Adjust cooking time as needed; thinner fillets will cook faster.
2. How do I ensure the sea bass is crispy?
Pat the fish very dry with paper towels before breading and 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 chili sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The chili sauce is even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Crispy Fried Sea Bass with 3-Flavor Chili Sauce recipe is a delightful balance of textures and tastes, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. The satisfying crunch of the sea bass perfectly complements the vibrant, spicy chili sauce, creating a truly memorable dining experience. Enjoy this delicious and relatively simple dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different chili variations to find your perfect flavor profile!