Steamed Deho Fish with Oyster Sauce: A Taste of Manado
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of Manado with this delightful recipe for Steamed Deho Fish with Oyster Sauce. This traditional Indonesian dish is perfect for those seeking an authentic taste experience with a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Follow these simple steps to create a meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole Deho fish
- 4 cloves garlic
- 4 shallots
- 2 scallions
- 4 celery leaves
- 7 bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 piece of ginger
- 1 apple tomato
Instructions:
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Prepare the Fish:
- Clean the Deho fish thoroughly and remove its internal organs. Rub the fish with a bit of salt and lemon juice to enhance flavor and reduce any fishy smell.
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Prepare the Aromatics:
- Clean the garlic, shallots, and ginger. Slice the garlic and shallots according to your preference (finely chopped or in thin strips). Slice the ginger into thin pieces. Cut the scallions and celery leaves into manageable lengths. Chop the bird’s eye chilies (or leave them whole if you prefer less heat). Dice the apple tomato.
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Assemble the Dish:
- In a steaming dish or tray, layer the sliced garlic, shallots, ginger, scallions, and celery leaves. Place the fish on top of this bed of aromatics. Scatter some additional sliced aromatics over the fish to infuse the flavors.
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Steam the Fish:
- Prepare your steamer and heat it up. Once ready, place the dish with the fish inside the steamer. Steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the aromatics have imparted their flavors.
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Prepare the Oyster Sauce Topping:
- Slice the garlic and scallions. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a pan until fragrant. Add the sliced garlic and scallions and sauté until aromatic. Stir in 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, a splash of water, a pinch of salt, and a dash of Royco (or your preferred seasoning). Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Finish and Serve:
- Pour the prepared oyster sauce mixture over the steamed fish. Allow the fish to sit for an additional 5 minutes so that the sauce can soak in. Serve hot, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Manado.
This Steamed Deho Fish with Oyster Sauce is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its authentic taste and aromatic appeal. Enjoy!