Craving a quick, flavorful, and surprisingly simple dish? Look no further than our Stir-fried Catfish with Chili and Basil. This recipe delivers a delightful explosion of fresh herbs and spicy heat, all balanced by the delicate sweetness of the catfish. Forget complicated marinades and lengthy preparations; this recipe focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal fuss. The key is a vibrant, three-ingredient chili paste that elevates the entire dish, transforming ordinary catfish into a culinary masterpiece. We use readily available ingredients to achieve a restaurant-quality taste in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can create this delicious meal! This recipe isn't just about taste; it's about efficiency and enjoying a flavorful, healthy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow our step-by-step guide below to learn how to make this incredible Stir-fried Catfish with Chili and Basil.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Frying pan
- Knife
Ingredients
- Catfish: 600 grams
- Seasoning powder: 1 teaspoon
- Red and green chili peppers
- Garlic
- Dried chili peppers
- Fresh basil leaves
- Oyster sauce
- Fish sauce
- Palm sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Make the Chili-Basil Paste
- Soak large dried chili peppers in water. Remove any mold. Pound the chilies until crushed. Add garlic (adjust amount based on preference). Add fresh chilies for extra spiciness.
Step 2. Fry the Catfish
- Cut the catfish into pieces, season with salt, and let it dry. Fry the catfish until golden brown and crispy over medium heat.
Step 3. Cook the Sauce
- Heat the pan with oil, add the curry paste, and stir-fry over low heat until fragrant.
- Add water used to rinse the mortar (or bone broth for richer flavor), palm sugar, fish sauce, seasoning powder, and oyster sauce.
- Stir-fry until the palm sugar dissolves, then add chili peppers.
Step 4. Combine and Finish
- Add the fried catfish and stir-fry until the sauce coats the fish.
- Add basil leaves and stir-fry over high heat until fragrant. Add more water if needed to adjust consistency.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Use large dried chilies for a vibrant red color. Smaller chilies will be spicier.
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers and garlic to your spice preference.
- Medium heat is ideal for frying the catfish to ensure it's cooked through and golden yellow.
- Use bone broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen catfish fillets for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before breading and frying for the crispiest results.
2. What can I substitute for the basil if I don't have any?
Cilantro or mint would be great substitutes, offering a similar fresh herbal flavor profile. Even a sprinkle of chopped green onions would work in a pinch.
This simple recipe delivers big on flavor, proving that delicious doesn't have to be complicated. The crispy catfish, combined with the vibrant chili and basil paste, creates a truly unforgettable dish. Enjoy your perfectly crispy, flavorful, and satisfying meal!