Craving a vibrant and flavorful dish that's both quick to prepare and bursting with taste? Look no further than this Spicy Nile Tilapia Stir-fry! Nile Tilapia, known for its delicate, flaky white meat, becomes a star in this fiery culinary adventure. We'll elevate this simple fish into a complex and satisfying meal, using a fragrant blend of curry paste, fiery chilies, and aromatic vegetables. The result is a dish that's both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients to create a truly unforgettable flavor experience. The balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy notes will leave your taste buds singing. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy cooking times; this recipe is all about bold flavors achieved with simple methods. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and transform your kitchen into a haven of spicy deliciousness.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Sieve or strainer
Ingredients
- Nile Tilapia
- Spicy Curry Paste
- Shrimp Paste: 2 teaspoons or ½ tablespoon
- Chili
- Kaffir Lime Leaves
- Basil Leaves
- Water
- Seasoning Powder
- Palm Sugar
- Fish Sauce
- Soy Sauce
- Oil for frying
- Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tilapia
- Cut Nile Tilapia into small pieces. Scrape the belly, wash, and pat dry. Season with salt and drain excess water.
Step 2. Fry the Tilapia
- Heat oil in a pan until hot. Fry the tilapia pieces until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Set aside to drain excess oil.
Step 3. Make the Curry Sauce
- Heat oil in a pan. Add spicy curry paste and stir-fry over low heat until fragrant (avoid burning).
- Add water or stock to create a curry sauce. Add palm sugar, fish sauce, and seasoning powder (to taste). Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Step 4. Combine and Finish
- Add the fried Nile Tilapia to the curry sauce. Stir-fry until well coated.
- Gradually add basil leaves and chilies. Stir-fry until wilted. Add shredded kaffir lime leaves and stir-fry until cooked. The sauce should coat the fish completely.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Use medium heat when frying the fish to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Hot oil is key.
- If using store-bought curry paste, it may not contain shrimp paste, so add it yourself.
- Avoid using high heat when stir-frying the curry paste, as it can burn easily.
- Add basil leaves towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their aroma.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-350
- Fat: 10-20g
- Carbs: 5-15g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of fish instead of Nile Tilapia?
Yes! Other firm, white-fleshed fish like cod, snapper, or catfish would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the fish's thickness.
2. What if I don't have all the curry paste ingredients?
You can substitute with a store-bought red or green curry paste. Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
3. How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili flakes or remove the chili entirely. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice at the end to balance the flavors.
This Crispy Spicy Stir-fried Nile Tilapia with Curry Paste recipe delivers a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. The combination of crispy fish, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic curry paste creates a truly unforgettable dish. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion!