The Best Vietnamese Dinner Recipes with Fresh Fish

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. One of the standout features of this culinary tradition is the use of fresh fish, which is prevalent in many dinner recipes. Here are some of the best Vietnamese dinner recipes that feature fresh fish, perfect for any meal.

1. Cá Kho Tộ (Braised Fish in Clay Pot)

Cá Kho Tộ is a classic Vietnamese dish that brings out the richness of fresh fish. Traditionally prepared using catfish, the fish is simmered in a mixture of fish sauce, sugar, and caramelized onions. This dish is typically served with steamed rice and pickled vegetables, making it a hearty meal.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh catfish or any firm white fish
  • Fish sauce
  • Sugar
  • Coconut water or broth
  • Shallots and garlic
  • Black pepper and chili (optional)

Instructions:

In a clay pot, sauté shallots and garlic in oil until fragrant. Add fish and slowly pour in fish sauce and coconut water. Let it simmer until the fish is tender and the sauce thickens. Serve hot with steamed rice.

2. Gỏi Cá (Vietnamese Fish Salad)

This refreshing salad is perfect for warmer evenings. Gỏi Cá is made with thinly sliced fresh fish, herbs, and vegetables, all tossed in a tangy dressing. Often served as an appetizer or a light main dish, it showcases the fresh flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh fish (e.g., tilapia or snapper)
  • Rice vermicelli noodles
  • Mint, cilantro, and basil
  • Carrots and cucumbers, julienned
  • Lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar for dressing

Instructions:

Lightly poach the fish until cooked, then shred it into strips. Cook the rice vermicelli according to package instructions. Combine fish, noodles, herbs, and vegetables in a bowl, adding the dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Toss gently and serve chilled.

3. Canh Chua Cá (Vietnamese Sour Fish Soup)

Canh Chua Cá is a delicious sour soup that incorporates fresh fish, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. This iconic dish is often enjoyed with rice and is perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh fish (e.g., catfish or tilapia)
  • Pineapple, tomatoes, and okra
  • Rice paddy herb or cilantro
  • Tamarind paste
  • Fish sauce and sugar

Instructions:

In a pot, bring water to a boil and add tamarind paste to achieve a sour flavor. Add the fish pieces, cooking until they are done. Then, add vegetables like pineapple, tomatoes, and okra. Season with fish sauce and sugar. Garnish with herbs before serving.

4. Cá Nướng (Grilled Fish)

Simplicity is key in the preparation of Cá Nướng, where fresh fish is marinated with traditional Vietnamese ingredients and grilled to perfection. Served with rice or as part of a wrap with fresh herbs, this dish is versatile and delicious.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh fish (any suitable grilling fish like mackerel)
  • Turmeric and garlic for marinade
  • Lemon grass and fish sauce
  • Lettuce leaves for wrapping
  • Nuoc cham (dipping sauce)

Instructions:

Marinate the fish with turmeric, garlic, lemongrass, and fish sauce for at least 30 minutes. Grill the fish until it flakes easily with a fork. Serve with fresh lettuce leaves and nuoc cham for dipping.

5. Bánh Mì Hấp Cá (Steamed Fish Banh Mi)

This modern twist on the traditional Vietnamese sandwich incorporates steamed fresh fish, making it a delightful and healthy option. The combination of fish, pickled vegetables, and crunchy herbs delivers a