When it comes to cooking fish, many people assume that it has to be boring and flavorless. However, Chinese cuisine is full of incredible fish recipes that are not only delicious but also packed with flavor. In this article, we will explore 20 mouth-watering Chinese fish recipes that you must try. From steaming to frying, braising to boiling, these recipes showcase the versatility and richness of Chinese cooking.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these Chinese fish recipes are sure to impress. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Chinese fish dishes!
Steamed Ginger Soy Fish
This recipe combines the freshness of fish with the warmth of ginger and the savory taste of soy sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as tilapia or cod)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
3. Place the fish fillets in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Add sliced ginger to the steamer basket with the fish.
5. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sichuan Spicy Boiled Fish
This classic Sichuan dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, with a bold and spicy flavor profile that will leave you craving for more. This recipe yields a tender and flavorful fish dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (about 2 lbs), cleaned and scaled
– 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 4-6 dried red chilies, crushed or 2 teaspoons Sichuan chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Salt and white pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, combine toasted Sichuan peppercorns, crushed red chilies, garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch.
2. Add the fish to the pot, making sure it’s fully submerged in the marinade.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Crispy Fish
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the crunch of crispy fish with the tangy sweetness of a sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each fish fillet into the flour mixture, then the beaten egg, and finally the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated fish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the fish from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with sweet and sour sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Braised Fish with Tofu and Mushrooms
This recipe combines the tender flaky fish with creamy tofu and earthy mushrooms, all infused with a rich and savory sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 cup fish broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add fish and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in garlic, soy sauce, tomato paste, and fish broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return fish to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and braise for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Fish with Black Bean Sauce
A classic Chinese dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines the tender flake of steamed fish with the savory goodness of black bean sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz fish fillet (tilapia or cod work well)
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish fillet and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, place the fish fillet and steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
3. While the fish is steaming, combine black beans, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Remove the fish from the steamer and brush with vegetable oil.
5. Spoon the black bean sauce over the fish and garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kung Pao Fish Fillet
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this Kung Pao-inspired fish fillet recipe. A perfect blend of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (cod or tilapia work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns; stir-fry 30 seconds.
3. Add fish fillets; cook 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili bean paste, and cornstarch.
5. Pour the sauce over the fish; toss to coat.
6. Garnish with green onions, scallions, and sesame seeds (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish Fragrant Eggplant with Fish
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of eggplant and the savory flavors of fish, all wrapped up in a fragrant sauce. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup fish sauce (or Nam Pla)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add eggplant slices; cook until tender (5 minutes per side).
4. Add fish pieces; cook until cooked through (3-4 minutes per side).
5. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, water, soy sauce, and sugar.
6. Pour sauce over eggplant and fish; simmer 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Whole Fish with Scallions
This simple yet flavorful recipe showcases the delicate flavors of a whole fish paired with the sweetness of scallions. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (about 1-2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 4-6 scallions, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Rinse the fish under cold running water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place the fish in the steamer basket, leaving space for even steam circulation.
4. Top the fish with scallions, slightly overlapping each other.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the scallions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Spicy Fish Hot Pot
Warm up with this flavorful and spicy hot pot recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious meal any time of the year!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (any white fish works well), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fish stock or water
– Noodles or rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add fish, diced tomatoes, ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in fish stock or water; bring to a simmer.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Serve with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Fish with Garlic Sauce
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines crispy fried fish with a rich and creamy garlic sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white fish such as cod or tilapia work well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Sauce ingredients:
+ 3 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each fish fillet into the flour mixture, then buttermilk, and finally coat with the remaining flour mixture.
3. Fry the fish in hot oil until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. For the garlic sauce, combine minced garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Serve the fried fish with a dollop of garlic sauce on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Fish Dumplings in Clear Broth
This simple recipe is a staple of Chinese cuisine, perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Flaky fish dumplings simmered in a clear broth make for a comforting and nourishing dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 pound of white fish fillet (such as cod or tilapia), finely chopped
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper
– 4 cups of chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine fish, scallions, garlic, salt, and white pepper. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a tablespoon of the fish mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the fish dumplings and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Fish with Vegetables
This quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and soy sauce to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Return the fish to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Fish with Fermented Tofu
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of steamed fish with the creamy, umami taste of fermented tofu. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup fermented tofu (doubanjiang), crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 inches of water.
2. Season fish fillets with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Place fish in the steamer basket.
4. In a small bowl, mix crumbled fermented tofu, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
5. Pour the mixture over the fish.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Fish and Tofu Clay Pot
This Chinese-inspired dish is a harmonious blend of tender fish, silky tofu, and savory sauce, all cooked to perfection in a clay pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillet (white or yellowtail), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the clay pot or a regular skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add fish pieces and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
4. In the same pot, add garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return fish and tofu to the pot, stirring gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Deep-Fried Fish with Sweet Chili Sauce
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic fish and chips! This recipe combines the crunch of deep-frying with the tangy sweetness of chili sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock work well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Fish and Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. This fish and noodle soup is packed with tender fish, flavorful vegetables, and springy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the fish fillets and cook until flaky and tender (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add the noodles and thyme. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Fish with Pickled Mustard Greens
This simple yet flavorful recipe pairs the tender flesh of fish with the tangy, slightly bitter taste of pickled mustard greens. The result is a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or mild-flavored)
– 1 bunch of mustard greens
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the fish fillets in a single layer.
3. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the pickled mustard greens:
– Rinse the greens and blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds.
– Shock in an ice bath to stop cooking.
– In a bowl, combine the cooled greens with white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
5. Serve the steamed fish with the pickled mustard greens spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry recipe combines the flavors of fish, shrimp, and vegetables for a quick and satisfying meal. With only a few ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and shrimp; cook for 3-4 minutes, until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the seafood from the skillet; set aside.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender.
6. Return the fish and shrimp to the skillet; stir in soy sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Fish Congee with Ginger and Scallions
A comforting and flavorful Chinese-inspired rice porridge perfect for a cold winter’s day or whenever you need a warm, nourishing meal. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover fish and adds a burst of freshness from the ginger and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 pound cooked fish (such as cod or tilapia), flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice, then place it in a large pot with 4 cups of water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
4. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the diced onion and sliced ginger until softened.
5. Add the cooked fish and chopped scallions to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the fish mixture to the congee pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer the congee for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pan-Fried Fish with Oyster Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. Pan-frying fish with oyster sauce creates a rich and savory crust that complements the delicate taste of the fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar.
3. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Add vegetable oil to the preheated skillet and swirl to coat.
5. Pan-fry the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Brush the oyster sauce mixture evenly over the fish during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of China’s fish dishes! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and variety of Chinese cooking. From steamed and braised fish to crispy fried and spicy hot pots, each recipe features a unique combination of ingredients and techniques. Try Steamed Ginger Soy Fish, Sichuan Spicy Boiled Fish, or Sweet and Sour Crispy Fish for a taste of China’s culinary delights.
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