Simple Sea Fish with Tofu in Spicy Paste
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with this Simple Sea Fish with Tofu, a comforting dish infused with aromatic spices and topped with savory fried tofu. The fresh sea fish is beautifully complemented by a rich, flavorful sauce made from a blend of traditional ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe marries simplicity with the essence of home-cooked goodness, ensuring a warm meal that delights every palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw sea fish (any variety) | 250 grams |
| Fried tofu (cut in half) | 5 pieces |
| Spring onions (for garnish) | To taste |
| Spicy Paste Ingredients: | |
| Garlic (peeled) | 3 cloves |
| Shallots (peeled) | 5 cloves |
| Red curly chilies | 5 pieces |
| Bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste) | 10 pieces |
| Ground turmeric | ½ teaspoon |
| Fried shrimp paste | ½ teaspoon |
| Tamarind (small amount) | To taste |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken seasoning (like Masako) | 1 packet |
| Water | 750 ml |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish: Begin by cleaning the sea fish thoroughly. If the fish is large, cut it into manageable pieces. To eliminate any fishy odors, squeeze fresh lime juice over the fish and let it marinate for a few minutes.
-
-
Make the Spicy Paste: In a mortar and pestle, crush together the garlic, shallots, red curly chilies, and bird’s eye chilies until you achieve a smooth paste. Alternatively, you can use a blender for this step.
-
Cook the Spicy Paste: Heat a drizzle of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the crushed spicy paste and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
-
Add Water and Simmer: Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the fish to the pot. Allow the fish to cook thoroughly, approximately 5-7 minutes, until it is opaque and flakes easily.
-
Incorporate Tofu: Next, gently add the halved fried tofu into the pot. Stir carefully to coat the tofu in the sauce without breaking it. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
-
Season to Taste: Check the seasoning of the dish, adjusting the sweetness or sourness with tamarind and sugar as per your preference. Stir in the chicken seasoning and mix well.
-
Garnish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat. If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped spring onions over the top for added flavor and presentation. Serve the dish warm with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 |
| Protein | 30 grams |
| Fat | 15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 25 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
This recipe not only showcases the delicious flavors of the sea but also brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to your dining table. Enjoy the vibrant colors and aromatic spices that make this dish a standout! Perfect for both casual meals and special gatherings, your family and friends will surely love it. Happy cooking!
