Sweet and Spicy Nila Fish Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Sweet and Spicy Nila Fish, a dish that beautifully combines the freshness of the fish with a rich, aromatic sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love a balance of sweetness and heat in their meals, making it an exciting addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 2 large Nila fish (or tilapia)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 cm ginger, smashed
• 1 tablespoon tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili sauce
• 3 sliced bird’s eye chilies
• ½ tablespoon cornstarch
• 200 ml water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish:

   • Start by rinsing the Nila fish under cold water. Rub the fish with vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavor. Afterward, wash the fish thoroughly to remove any vinegar residue.
   • Sprinkle salt and chicken bouillon powder evenly over the fish, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.

2. Fry the Fish:

   • In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fish in the pan. Fry the fish until golden brown on both sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Once cooked, remove the fish from the pan and let it drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same pan, remove excess oil but leave a tablespoon for sautéing. Add the sliced onion, garlic, and smashed ginger. Sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
   • Add the tomato sauce, chili sauce, and sliced bird’s eye chilies to the pan. Stir well to combine the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
   • Pour in about 200 ml of water, stirring gently. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Thicken the Sauce:

   • In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 4 tablespoons of water. Once dissolved, gradually pour this mixture into the sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

5. Serve:

   • Place the fried fish in a serving dish. Generously pour the thickened sauce over the fish, ensuring it’s evenly coated. The vibrant colors and rich flavors will surely impress your guests.

Enjoy!

This Sweet and Spicy Nila Fish can be served with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes, making it a versatile and delicious meal that embodies the love of cooking. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser.