Steamed Nile Tilapia with Herbs & Spicy Papaya Salad Recipe

Updated at: 16/06/2025

Steamed Nile Tilapia with Herbs offers a refreshing take on this healthy and versatile fish. This simple yet elegant recipe showcases the delicate flavor of tilapia, enhanced by a vibrant blend of fresh herbs and a touch of aromatic ginger. Forget greasy frying or complicated preparations; this method delivers perfectly moist and flaky fish in minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a light yet satisfying weekend meal. The delicate flavor of the tilapia pairs beautifully with the bright, herbaceous notes, creating a harmonious balance on your palate.

This recipe prioritizes simplicity and fresh ingredients, maximizing the natural deliciousness of the tilapia. The aromatic herbs and subtle spices create a fragrant and flavorful experience, while the steaming method ensures the fish retains its moisture and delicate texture. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to preparing this delightful dish.

Tools Needed

  • knife
  • mortar and pestle
  • steamer

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Tilapia and Herbs

  • Cut the fish into pieces. Mae Rung prefers cutting into pieces for better herb blending.
  • Mix the fish pieces with salt, rubbing it thoroughly, especially the belly. Rinse off the salt water with 2-3 changes of water.
  • Chop lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, shallots, and garlic into small pieces. Pound them until fine.
  • Mix the pounded herbs with the tilapia, adding salt, MSG, and seasoning powder. Massage the seasoning into the fish.
Prepare the tilapia: Cut the fish into pieces. Mae Rung prefers cutting into pieces for better herb blending.Season the tilapia: Mix the fish pieces with salt, rubbing it thoroughly, especially the belly. Rinse off the salt water with 2-3 changes of water.Prepare the herbs: Chop lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, shallots, and garlic into small pieces. Pound them until fine.Combine tilapia and herbs: Mix the pounded herbs with the tilapia, adding salt, MSG, and seasoning powder. Massage the seasoning into the fish.
Prepare the Tilapia and Herbs

Step 2. Steam the Fish and Vegetables

  • Cut banana blossom into 4 parts and soak in salt water. Prepare other vegetables like eggplant and pumpkin.
  • Place the seasoned tilapia and prepared vegetables in the steamer. Steam until cooked through.
Prepare the vegetables: Cut banana blossom into 4 parts and soak in salt water. Prepare other vegetables like eggplant and pumpkin.Steam the fish and vegetables: Place the seasoned tilapia and prepared vegetables in the steamer. Steam until cooked through.
Steam the Fish and Vegetables

Step 3. Make the Spicy Papaya Salad

  • Pound chilies, garlic, and shallots until fine. Season with fish sauce, fermented fish sauce, and lime to taste. Add chopped shallots and coriander. Mix well.
Make the spicy papaya salad: Pound chilies, garlic, and shallots until fine. Season with fish sauce, fermented fish sauce, and lime to taste. Add chopped shallots and coriander. Mix well.
Make the Spicy Papaya Salad

Step 4. Serve the Dish

  • Arrange the steamed tilapia, vegetables, and spicy papaya salad on a plate.
Serve: Arrange the steamed tilapia, vegetables, and spicy papaya salad on a plate.
Serve the Dish

Read more: Fresh Thai Steamed Fish: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe

Tips

  • If you don't like cutting the fish into pieces, you can steam it whole.
  • Use plenty of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves for a fragrant flavor.
  • Adjust seasoning in the spicy papaya salad to your preference of spicy, sour, and mellow.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the Nile Tilapia with another type of fish?

Yes! Cod, snapper, or even firm white fish fillets would work well. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your chosen fish.

2. How can I make the papaya salad less spicy?

Reduce the amount of chili flakes or bird's eye chilies used in the recipe. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice to balance the heat.


This Steamed Nile Tilapia with Herbs and Spicy Papaya Salad recipe offers a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal. The combination of delicate fish and vibrant salad creates a satisfying and balanced culinary experience. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a light lunch, a vibrant dinner, or a unique addition to your next gathering!