Crispy Fish with Sweet and Sour Sauce 🐟🍍

Introduction:

This Crispy Fish with Sweet and Sour Sauce recipe is a delightful combination of crispy, golden fish pieces smothered in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, accented with succulent pineapple chunks and vibrant bell peppers. Adapted from a beloved Bon Appetit recipe, this dish promises both fantastic flavor and ease of preparation, making it a surefire hit for family dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, perfect for those who may typically shy away from fish dishes. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

Instructions:

Let’s embark on the culinary journey of creating this delectable dish step by step:

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Toss the sea bass fillet pieces with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a medium bowl until evenly coated.

2. Create the Batter:

   • In a separate small bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of oil, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
   • Gradually add water to the flour mixture, whisking continuously until a smooth batter forms.
   • Pour the batter over the fish pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Allow the mixture to stand for 15 minutes.

3. Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

   • Whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapple chunks), sugar, red wine vinegar, hot pepper sauce, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt in a small bowl until well blended.

4. Stir-Fry Aromatics and Vegetables:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a heavy medium skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Incorporate the fresh ginger and lemon peel, continuing to stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavors. Remove and discard the garlic clove.
   • Quickly stir-fry the red bell pepper just until heated through, about 30 seconds.

5. Combine Sauce and Vegetables:

   • Add the prepared pineapple juice mixture along with the pineapple chunks to the skillet.
   • Cook the mixture until the sauce thickens and becomes clear, stirring constantly for approximately 1 minute.

6. Fry the Fish:

   • Heat 4 cups of oil in a wok or deep medium saucepan to 375°F (190°C).
   • Carefully add the batter-coated fish pieces to the hot oil in batches.
   • Fry the fish until they turn crisp and golden, which usually takes about 4 minutes per batch.
   • Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried fish to a paper towel-lined dish to drain any excess oil.

7. Final Assembly:

   • Reheat the sweet and sour sauce briefly, if necessary.
   • Arrange the crispy fish pieces on a serving platter.
   • Spoon the warm sweet and sour sauce over the fish generously.

Serving Suggestions:

This Crispy Fish with Sweet and Sour Sauce pairs beautifully with steamed white rice or fried rice, allowing you to soak up every bit of that irresistible sauce. For added freshness and crunch, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or lightly steamed vegetables.

Conclusion:

With its crispy exterior, succulent fish, and flavorful sweet and sour sauce bursting with tropical notes, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a quick yet satisfying meal, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity. Give it a try and watch as even the pickiest eaters in your household eagerly dig in!