How to Make Vietnamese Fish in Coconut Milk
Vietnamese Fish in Coconut Milk, or "Cá Kho Tộ," is a delightful dish that showcases the rich flavors of fish simmered in a creamy coconut sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings the essence of Vietnamese cuisine right to your kitchen. Follow these simple steps to recreate this traditional dish.
Ingredients
- 500 grams of fish (catfish or tilapia work well)
- 1 can (400 ml) of coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 red chili, sliced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like cilantro or green onions)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fish
Clean and cut the fish into thick slices. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, and turmeric powder. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots, stirring them until they turn golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the Fish
Carefully add the marinated fish slices to the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to develop a nice color. Be gentle with the fish to avoid breaking the pieces.
4. Add Coconut Milk
Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. If you enjoy some heat, add the sliced red chili at this stage. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer
Let the fish simmer in the coconut milk for about 15-20 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly, and the flavors will meld beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or fish sauce as needed.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the fish is cooked through and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or sliced green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice to soak up the delicious coconut sauce.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Vietnamese Fish in Coconut Milk is not only packed with flavor but also provides a wonderful creamy texture that complements the fish perfectly. It’s a unique dish that brings a taste of Vietnam to your dining table. Perfect for dinner gatherings or a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress!
Tips for Cooking
- Use fresh fish for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of fish based on availability.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese Fish in Coconut Milk, and experience the harmony of flavors that Vietnamese cuisine is known for!