How to Prepare Vietnamese Grilled Fish for a Family Dinner

Vietnamese grilled fish, or "cá nướng," is a flavorful dish that promises to elevate your family dinner experience. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. Here’s how to make it at home.

Ingredients

To prepare Vietnamese grilled fish, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 whole fish (such as tilapia or sea bass), cleaned and scaled
  • 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
  • Fresh herbs (like dill, cilantro, and mint)
  • Rice paper or lettuce leaves (for wrapping)
  • Vegetables (such as cucumber and carrots, for serving)

Marinating the Fish

Start by preparing a marinade for the fish. In a bowl, combine fish sauce, sugar, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped chili peppers. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.

Place the cleaned fish in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure that the fish is well-coated inside and out. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably for a few hours to enhance the flavors.

Grilling the Fish

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. If using an outdoor grill, make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Once heated, carefully place the marinated fish on the grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fish, until the skin is crispy and the fish is cooked through.

Use a spatula to gently flip the fish. Be careful not to break the fish apart while handling it. You can tell when the fish is ready when the flesh easily flakes with a fork.

Serving the Grilled Fish

Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to settle.

To serve, place the grilled fish on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs. You can accompany the fish with rice paper or lettuce leaves, allowing family members to wrap pieces of fish along with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and carrots. This adds crunch and freshness to your meal.

Additional Tips

If you enjoy a smoky flavor, consider adding charcoal to your grilling process or using a grill basket for even cooking.

Experiment with different herbs and spices in your marinade, such as lemongrass or ginger, to give it a unique twist.

With these simple steps, you can prepare a delightful Vietnamese grilled fish that the whole family will love. Enjoy your cooking and the wonderful flavors of this traditional dish!