Craving a flavorful and surprisingly easy-to-make dish that's both budget-friendly and bursting with fresh aroma? Look no further than this recipe for Steamed Fish Head with Holy Basil! This simple yet elegant recipe showcases the delicate sweetness of the fish head perfectly complemented by the pungent, slightly peppery notes of holy basil. It’s a vibrant dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, demanding minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. Forget complicated techniques and expensive ingredients; this recipe prioritizes fresh, high-quality ingredients to let their natural flavors shine.
This recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes – the tender, flaky fish head contrasted with the aromatic herbs and a subtly spicy sauce. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this delicious and unforgettable Steamed Fish Head with Holy Basil.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Pot
- Knife
- Chopping board
Ingredients
- Fish Head (e.g., Grouper)
- Holy Basil Leaves
- Garlic
- Chili
- Soy Sauce
- Fish Sauce
- Sugar
- Cooking Oil
- Ginger
- Spring Onion
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Aromatics
- Prepare the fish head by cleaning it thoroughly. (This step is implied, not explicitly mentioned in the transcript)
- Mince garlic, chili, and ginger. (Implied)
- Prepare holy basil leaves.(Implied)



Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Create Flavor Base
- Heat oil in a pot, then saute garlic, chili, and ginger until fragrant. (Implied)
- Add soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar to the pot. Mix well. (Implied)


Step 3. Steam the Fish
- Place the fish head in a steamer and pour the sauce over the fish. (Implied)
- Steam the fish until cooked through. (Implied)


Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with holy basil leaves and spring onions. (Implied)

Read more: Fresh Thai Steamed Fish: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spice level.
- You can use other types of fish instead of grouper.
- Serve hot with rice.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 5-10g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish head?
Yes! While snapper works best, you can substitute with other firm white fish heads like cod, sea bass, or grouper. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the fish's thickness.
2. What if I don't have holy basil?
While holy basil adds a unique flavor, you can substitute with Thai basil or even regular sweet basil in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
This Easy Spicy Steamed Fish Head with Holy Basil recipe proves that delicious and impressive meals don't have to be complicated or expensive. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a perfect weeknight meal, ready in minutes. Enjoy this fragrant and flavorful dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different chilies to adjust the spice level to your preference!