Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines delicate white fish with the vibrant flavors of lime, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Steamed to perfection, this dish is both quick to prepare and packed with fresh, zesty flavors, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 fillets of white fish
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
- Cilantro, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic, ginger, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place each fish fillet on a piece of foil large enough to wrap it completely.
- Spoon the garlic-lime mixture over each fillet.
- Wrap the foil around the fish and place in a steamer.
- Steam the fish for about 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Garnish with green onions and cilantro before serving.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations:
- Different Fish: You can use any white fish fillet such as cod, tilapia, or halibut for this recipe. The cooking time will be similar for most white fish.
- Spicy Kick: Add some chopped chili peppers or a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy version.
- Herb Variations: Swap out cilantro for basil or mint for a fresh twist.
- Coconut Milk: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of coconut milk to the marinade mixture before steaming.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Leftover steamed fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the fish in the microwave or on the stovetop, covered, with a splash of water to keep it moist.
10 FAQs:
- Can I use frozen fish fillets? Yes, frozen fish fillets can be used, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
- Can I use a different type of oil instead of sesame oil? You can use olive oil or vegetable oil, but sesame oil gives the dish its signature flavor.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add some finely chopped red chilies or a drizzle of sriracha sauce to the garlic-lime marinade for extra heat.
- Can I cook the fish without foil? Yes, you can steam the fish directly on a steamer tray without foil, but wrapping it ensures the fish absorbs all the marinade flavors.
- Can I grill this fish instead of steaming it? Yes, grilling is a great alternative. Just marinate the fish and grill it over medium heat until cooked through.
- What side dishes go well with this fish? This dish pairs well with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a light salad.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this dish is gluten-free.
- How can I make this dish sweeter? Increase the amount of honey in the marinade for a sweeter flavor.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the marinade and wrap the fish in foil ahead of time, then steam it just before serving.
- What other herbs can I use for garnish? Fresh mint or basil can be used instead of cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion:
Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of garlic, ginger, lime, and soy sauce makes for a deliciously aromatic marinade, while steaming the fish ensures it stays tender and moist. Whether served for a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a larger meal, this dish is sure to impress with its fresh, zesty flavors.