Craving a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s both impressive and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Thai Fried Sea Bass recipe! This recipe elevates the humble sea bass into a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the exquisite balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory flavors characteristic of Thai cuisine. Imagine crispy, golden-brown skin giving way to succulent, flaky white flesh, all coated in a tantalizing sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. Forget complicated techniques – this recipe is designed for home cooks of all levels.
The secret lies in a simple yet effective marinade and a perfectly executed frying technique, ensuring a wonderfully textured fish every time. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the sea bass to creating the unforgettable sweet and sour chili sauce. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Frying Pan
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Sea Bass
- Salt
- Turmeric
- Cornstarch
- Garlic
- Onion
- Lime Leaves
- Ginger
- Sweet Chili Sauce
- Dark Soy Sauce
- Fish Sauce
- Red & Green Chili
- Coriander
- Lime Juice
- Spring Onion
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sea Bass
- Rub the sea bass with a good amount of salt and turmeric. Ensure it gets inside the fish.
- Coat the fish with cornstarch for extra crispiness.
- Marinate the fish for a few minutes.
- Deep fry the fish in batches if necessary.
Step 2. Make the Sweet and Sour Spicy Sauce
- Lightly brown garlic in a pan.
- Add onion, lime leaves, ginger, sweet chili sauce, dark soy sauce, and fish sauce to the pan.
- Prepare a slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Add red and green chilies to the sauce.
Step 3. Fry the Sea Bass
- Deep fry the fish in batches if necessary.
Step 4. Combine and Garnish
- Garnish with fresh coriander and lime juice.
- Pour the sauce over the fried fish.
- Garnish with spring onion, more chilies, and coriander.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Make sure the fish is fully coated with salt, turmeric and cornstarch
- Adjust the amount of chili to your desired spice level.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute sea bass with other firm, white fish like snapper, cod, or even catfish. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the thickness of the fish.
2. How can I make the sauce less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili flakes or bird's eye chilies used in the sauce. You can also add a touch more sugar to balance the heat.
3. What if my sea bass isn't crispy enough?
Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F/175°C). Don't overcrowd the pan, and make sure the fish is completely dry before frying to promote crispiness.
This Crispy Thai Sweet & Sour Spicy Sea Bass recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful fusion of textures and flavors in every bite. From the satisfying crunch of the fried skin to the vibrant, zesty sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary journey!