Craving a vibrant and flavorful Thai dish that's both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this recipe for Crispy Stir-fried Catfish with Holy Basil. This recipe delivers a delightful explosion of tastes and textures, combining the crispy, flaky catfish with the aromatic punch of holy basil and a medley of other fresh ingredients. The savory sauce perfectly complements the fish, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget complicated techniques; this recipe is surprisingly easy to master, even for novice cooks.
Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure as we guide you through each step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfect crispy finish. This simple yet impressive dish is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience the authentic taste of Thailand in your own kitchen; let's get started with our step-by-step guide to creating this incredible Crispy Stir-fried Catfish with Holy Basil.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Mortar and pestle
Ingredients
- Catfish
- Holy basil leaves
- Tapioca flour (optional)
- Salt
- Cornstarch
- Red chili peppers
- Garlic
- MSG
- Seasoning powder
- Sugar
- White soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Dark soy sauce
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Catfish and Holy Basil
- The speaker mentions health benefits of basil at this point)
- Wash the catfish and add salt. Add tapioca flour if desired.
- Mix salt with cornstarch thoroughly and coat the catfish.
- Wash off excess salt and cornstarch and pat the catfish dry.
- Lightly dust the dry catfish with flour to prevent oil splattering.
Step 2. Fry the Catfish
- Fry the catfish in hot oil until golden brown on both sides, ensuring it's cooked through and crispy.
- Set the fried catfish aside to drain excess oil.
Step 3. Make the Holy Basil Sauce
- Pound chilies and garlic to your desired level of spiciness. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Stir-fry the pounded chilies and garlic in oil until fragrant.
- Add MSG, seasoning powder, sugar, white soy sauce, oyster sauce, and dark soy sauce to the chilies and garlic.
- The speaker mentions optionally adding water at this stage, but the recipe shown is dry).
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Add the holy basil leaves and stir-fry everything together until well combined.
- Serve the stir-fried catfish with holy basil immediately.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- To prevent a dry or soggy result, ensure the catfish is properly dried before frying and use a dry stir-fry method for the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to control the spiciness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-350
- Fat: 10-20g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the catfish with another type of fish?
Yes! Firm, white-fleshed fish like tilapia or snapper work well. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the thickness of the fish.
2. What if I don't have fresh holy basil?
Dried holy basil can be used, but the flavor will be slightly less intense. You can also substitute with Thai basil, although the flavor profile will change slightly.
3. How do I ensure the catfish is crispy?
Make sure the catfish is completely dry before frying. Use a high heat and don't overcrowd the pan. This allows for even browning and crispiness.
This Crispy Stir-fried Catfish with Holy Basil recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Thai cuisine. Enjoy this flavorful dish as a weeknight meal or a special occasion treat, impressing your friends and family with its authentic taste. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and embark on this culinary journey to Thailand!