Craving a vibrant and flavourful Thai dish that's quick to make and bursting with authentic taste? Look no further than this Spicy Minced Fish Stir-fry! This recipe delivers a delightful explosion of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet sensations, all thanks to a masterful blend of fresh herbs, fiery chilies, and succulent minced fish. It's the perfect weeknight meal, ready in under 30 minutes and guaranteed to impress. Forget complicated Thai takeout – this recipe empowers you to recreate the magic at home with simple ingredients and surprisingly easy techniques.
The key to this dish lies in perfectly balancing the delicate flavor of the fish with the robust heat of the chilies and the refreshing zest of the herbs. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve the perfect level of spice and texture. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Mortar and pestle
Ingredients
- Minced fish
- Fish sauce: ½ tablespoon
- Kaffir lime leaves
- Basil leaves
- Dill leaves
- Curry paste
- Eggplant
- Galangal: finely chopped
- Fresh pepper
- Chili peppers: 1 big red one
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Clams: 1 tablespoon
- Water
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Aromatics
- Mix basil and dill leaves, wash, and soak in water.
- Cut eggplant and soak in water for 15-30 minutes.
- Prepare curry paste (recipe link provided in video description).
Step 2. Cook the Curry and Fish
- Stir-fry minced fish with fish sauce and kaffir lime leaves until the fishy smell is gone.
- Heat a pan with water, then add curry paste and stir-fry.
- Add pre-cooked minced fish and stir-fry until well combined.
- Add a little water to wash the mortar and continue stir-frying.
Step 3. Add Vegetables and Season
- Add eggplant, galangal, and pepper; stir-fry until eggplant is crispy.
- Season with oyster sauce, clams, water, and sugar (adjust sweetness to taste).
Step 4. Finish with Herbs and Chili
- Add basil, dill, and chili peppers; stir-fry until cooked.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Soaking the eggplant prevents it from turning black during stir-frying.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and MSG according to your preference.
- Stir-fry until the dish is dry and flavorful.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! Tilapia, cod, or catfish work well. Just make sure the fish is boneless and minced finely.
2. How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness is adjustable. Use fewer chilies for a milder dish, or add more for extra heat. Taste as you go!
3. What if I don't have all the herbs listed?
Don't worry! Feel free to substitute with similar herbs you have on hand. Cilantro and mint are easily replaceable, but the lemongrass adds a unique flavour.
This Spicy Stir-Fried Minced Fish recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Thai cuisine. With its vibrant flavors and quick cooking time, it's a perfect dish for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy the satisfying heat and the fresh, bright tastes of this authentic Thai creation!