Are you looking for a culinary adventure that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride? Look no further than the world of Chinese fish recipes! With its rich cultural heritage and diverse regional flavors, China has a plethora of mouth-watering fish dishes to explore. From spicy Sichuan hot pots to delicate Cantonese steamed fish, there’s something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 delectable Chinese fish recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes offer a range of cooking techniques and flavor profiles to suit every taste and occasion. From comforting braises to crispy fried delights, each dish is a testament to the versatility and richness of Chinese cuisine.
Stay tuned for a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing!
Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger and Scallions
A classic Chinese dish that highlights the simplicity and elegance of steaming a whole fish, this recipe infuses the delicate flavors of ginger and scallions to create a harmonious balance of tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (1-2 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 4-6 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish under cold running water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the fish in a large steamer basket lined with parchment paper or cheesecloth.
3. In a small bowl, combine sliced ginger, scallions, soy sauce, and water.
4. Arrange the ginger-scallion mixture on top of the fish, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Steam the fish over boiling water for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes per pound
Sichuan Spicy Boiled Fish
A classic Sichuan dish that combines the delicate flavor of fish with the boldness of chili peppers and spices, Sichuan Spicy Boiled Fish is a must-try for any lover of spicy cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (1-2 lbs), cleaned and scaled
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 3-4 Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– 1-2 teaspoons Sichuan chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the fish into chunks and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, garlic, onion, Sichuan peppercorns, chili bean paste, sugar, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the fish chunks to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Fish
Sweet and Sour Fish Recipe: A Delightful Twist on Classic Chinese Cuisine
This recipe for Sweet and Sour Fish is a classic Chinese dish that combines the freshness of fish with the tanginess of sweet and sour sauce. The result is a dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillet (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the fish into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until softened.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the fish and sweet and sour sauce, stirring to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Braised Fish in Soy Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of this Asian-inspired dish as tender fish is slow-cooked in a savory soy sauce-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillet (cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi work well), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add fish pieces; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
5. Pour the sauce over the fish and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and braise for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Fragrant Eggplant with Fish
This recipe combines the flavors of fish and eggplant, infused with the bold spices of Sichuan cuisine. The result is a savory and aromatic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants
– 1/4 cup Fish Fragrant Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 pound fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch cubes and salt them lightly. Let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish pieces and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the minced ginger and crushed Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the Fish Fragrant Sauce to the pan and stir-fry until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the eggplant cubes to the pan and stir-fry until they start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return the fish pieces to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kung Pao Fish
This spicy Sichuan-inspired dish combines tender fish with crunchy peanuts, crispy vegetables, and a savory sauce, all coming together in a flavor-packed fusion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillet (catfish or tilapia work well), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 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 for 30 seconds.
3. Add fish; cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove fish from the pan; set aside.
5. Stir-fry peanuts, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture in the same pan.
6. Return fish to the pan; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Fish with Black Bean Sauce
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the flaky texture of steamed fish with the rich flavor of black bean sauce. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), garlic, sugar, and cornstarch.
3. Place the fish on a heatproof plate or steamer basket.
4. Pour the black bean mixture over the fish, making sure each fillet is coated evenly.
5. Steam the fish over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crispy Fried Fish with Salt and Pepper
A classic comfort food that’s quick and easy to make, this recipe yields a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or skillet to medium-high heat (around 350°F).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Carefully place the coated fish into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the fish from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Fish and Tofu Soup
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of fish with the savory taste of tofu, creating a nutritious and comforting soup. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little water until softened.
2. Add the fish and tofu; cook until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has reached desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Stir-Fried Fish with Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the delicate taste of fish with a colorful medley of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add fish and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Return fish to the pan and pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry until everything is well coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish Dumplings in Spicy Broth
Warm up with this comforting Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender fish dumplings with a spicy and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
– Sambal oelek (chili paste) or sriracha, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish pieces, flour, cornstarch, scallions, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Bring vegetable broth to a boil in a large pot. Using wet hands, shape fish mixture into small dumplings (about 1-inch in diameter). Cook dumplings in boiling broth for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
4. Serve hot with sambal oelek or sriracha on the side for added heat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Fish with Preserved Vegetables
This classic Chinese recipe combines the delicate flavor of fish with the sweet and sour taste of preserved vegetables, creating a harmonious and nutritious dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 fish fillet (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup preserved vegetables (such as carrots, cabbage, and bean sprouts)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish fillet under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the fish in a steamer basket over boiling water, leaving space between each piece if cooking multiple pieces.
3. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, heat the soy sauce and sesame oil over medium heat. Add the preserved vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve the steamed fish with the preserved vegetable mixture spooned on top. Garnish with fresh scallions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish Congee with Ginger
This recipe for Fish Congee with Ginger is a classic Chinese comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick meal. The combination of fish, ginger, and rice porridge creates a nourishing and flavorful dish that’s great for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of uncooked white rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1/2 pound of fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and place it in a large pot with 2 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add the fish, ginger, and vegetable oil to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pan-Fried Fish with Garlic Sauce
A classic combination that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This Pan-Fried Fish with Garlic Sauce recipe is a quick and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet.
5. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
7. Serve the garlic sauce over the pan-fried fish and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish Stir-Fry with Snow Peas
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. Flaky fish, crunchy snow peas, and savory soy sauce come together in harmony to create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups snow peas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add fish and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, snow peas, ginger, and garlic. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until snow peas are tender-crisp.
4. Add soy sauce to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Return fish to the pan and toss with snow pea mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Fish with Mushrooms
This hearty dish combines tender fish with a rich and earthy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well), skin removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning.
5. Add chicken broth, white wine (if using), and butter. Stir to combine.
6. Place fish fillets on top of mushroom mixture. Cover with a lid or foil.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and braise for 15-20 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish and Eggplant Clay Pot
This recipe combines the tender flavors of fish with the meaty texture of eggplant, all wrapped up in a flavorful clay pot dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillet (any white fish works well), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fish stock (or water)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together fish, eggplant, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the mixture in a clay pot or ceramic dish (about 9×13 inches).
4. Pour in the fish stock and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the eggplant is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Grass Fish Curry
A fragrant and flavorful curry from Southeast Asia, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon grass with the richness of fish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add lemongrass, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Stir in coconut milk; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish with Fermented Tofu Sauce
A flavorful and savory fusion of Asian-inspired flavors, this dish combines the tender flaky fish with a creamy and pungent fermented tofu sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup fermented tofu (doubanjiang), crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season fish fillets with salt, pepper, and a pinch of soy sauce.
3. In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add crumbled fermented tofu, rice vinegar, and grated ginger to the pan. Stir well to combine.
5. Place fish fillets in the pan with the sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish and Noodle Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines succulent fish with a medley of vegetables and noodles, making it a perfect meal for any day. With minimal prep time and cooking time, you’ll have a delicious dish on the table in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillets (any white fish works well), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked noodles (such as soba or rice noodles)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, etc.)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add fish and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through. Remove from the pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Add noodles and cooked fish to the pan. Toss everything together for about 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering Chinese fish recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic dishes like Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger and Scallions to bold flavors like Sichuan Spicy Boiled Fish, there’s something for every taste bud. This collection includes sweet and sour options, savory braises, crispy fried delights, and hearty soups. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special celebration dish, these recipes will guide you through the preparation of tender and flavorful fish dishes that are sure to impress.