It’s Kelly Atkinson here from Food And Meal, and today, I’m eager to share with you a recipe that has become a cherished addition to my culinary repertoire: Fried Fish in Peanut Sauce. This dish, with its harmonious blend of textures and flavors, is a testament to the simple joy of cooking and the power of a good sauce to elevate any meal.
In the quiet of my kitchen, with the day winding down, there’s a certain peace that comes with preparing a meal for those I hold dear. The decision to create this dish tonight is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about crafting an experience. The choice of fish, a staple in many cultures, is intentional—it’s versatile, it’s familiar, and when treated with care, it becomes something extraordinary.
The peanut sauce, rich and comforting, is a nod to the diverse culinary landscapes I’ve had the pleasure of exploring throughout my career. It’s a humble tribute to the global tapestry of flavors that have inspired me, brought into the intimacy of our own kitchens. There’s a story in every spoonful, and as I whisk together the ingredients, I’m reminded of the journeys food can take us on.
This evening, as I stand at the stove, the sizzle of the fish as it hits the pan is like a symphony, each note building anticipation for the first bite. I want to bring to your table not just a meal, but a moment of connection—a chance to gather and share in the simple pleasures that a dish like Fried Fish in Peanut Sauce can offer.
This recipe is a popular staple of Cameroonian cuisine. It is simple to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. Fresh fish does not require marinating, but it is important to ensure that the fish is well-cooked before adding it to the sauce. You can prepare the sauce ahead of time in a food processor and heat it up when ready to serve. The flavor of this dish is enhanced when it is served over white rice.
Fish in peanut sauce recipe
Fried Fish in peanut sauce recipe
Ingredients
- 3 lbs 1 whole fish
- 4 tablespoons cooking oil red oil
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 2 chili peppers
- ½ teaspoon ginger powder
- Black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg powder
- Ginger
- Peanut oil
- ½ cup smoked prawns shrimp, or fish.
Instructions
- Wash and pat the fish dry. Cut into sizable chunks saving the head.
- Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and clean the pepper (leave it whole)
- Heat the oil in a pan and add the fish. Add some garlic to it and fry on both sides until the inside is done and the outside golden brown. Remove from the oil and place on an absorbent paper.
- Grind the ginger, nutmeg, coriander, black pepper, salt, and half of the prawns or shrimp. Set aside.
- Boil 4 cups of water in a pot and add the fish head along with the mixed spices in step 4. Simmer on low heat.
- Heat two tbsp of peanut oil in a clean pan. Add the onions with the remaining garlic and caramelize. Then, add the chili pepper. Reduce the heat and add the fried fish to the mixture.
- Remove the head of the fish from the broth and add peanut butter to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to get a smooth paste. Cook over medium heat for some minutes until the mixture turns into a thick sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the fish and onions in the pan and stir. Add the remaining dried prawn or shrimp and cook for a further few minutes.
- Serve with rice or boiled plantains.
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Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Preparation Method: Slow Cooker Simplicity
Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper, and feel free to cut them into smaller pieces. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Sear the seasoned fish fillets on both sides in the skillet for a golden color, locking in the flavors. Transfer everything to the slow cooker, placing the seared fish fillets and sliced red and green bell peppers. In a separate bowl, combine peanut sauce, coconut milk, and chicken or vegetable broth. Pour this creamy mixture over the fish and peppers in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, adjusting based on your slow cooker. When the fish is flaky and easily breaks apart, it’s ready. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the slow-cooked fish in peanut sauce over fluffy white rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness.
Tips for making Fish in Peanut Sauce
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fish in Peanut Sauce
Firstly, selecting the right fish is crucial. Opt for fillets that are firm and fresh, ones that will hold up well to frying and carry the robust peanut sauce elegantly. A personal favorite is a white fish like tilapia or cod, which offers a clean canvas for the flavors we’re about to layer on.
The batter for the fish should be light and airy, providing just enough crispness without becoming heavy. My tip here is to use cold sparkling water in the batter mix; it’s a little trick that makes all the difference, resulting in a wonderfully crunchy texture that sings in harmony with the tender fish inside.
Now, let’s talk about the heart of this dish—the peanut sauce. It’s important to strike a balance between creamy and flavorful without overpowering the fish. Gently toast the peanuts if you’re making the sauce from scratch, as this will release their oils and deepen the flavor. And remember, the sauce should coat the fish lovingly, complementing rather than dominating.
As for the frying, patience is your friend. Allow the oil to reach the ideal temperature—hot enough to seal the batter quickly but not so hot as to burn it. This ensures that each piece of fish is golden and cooked to perfection, with a satisfying crunch that yields to the succulence beneath.
Lastly, presentation matters. Take a moment to plate your dish thoughtfully, allowing the colors and textures to come alive on the plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped herbs or a squeeze of lime to add a fresh zing that cuts through the richness.
Serving Suggestions for Your Fish in Peanut Sauce
Serving suggestions for a dish as distinctive as Fried Fish in Peanut Sauce should complement its flavors without overshadowing the main event. With this in mind, let’s consider pairing options that will harmonize with the nutty and savory notes of our featured recipe.
For starters, a light and refreshing Daikon Salad would provide a crisp contrast to the richness of the peanut sauce. The subtle spiciness of daikon radish can cleanse the palate and prepare it for the next flavorful bite of fish.
As a side dish, Gyoza, those delicate Japanese dumplings, could be an excellent choice. Opt for vegetable gyoza to maintain balance; their crispy exterior and tender filling would make a delightful textural counterpoint to the main course.
To accompany the meal, Miso Soup offers a comforting umami depth that aligns well with the savory elements of the peanut sauce. Its warm, soothing qualities would make it a welcome addition to the meal, especially on cooler evenings.
For those who enjoy a bit of greenery, a simple side of Bok Choy Soup could be a nourishing and light option. The gentle flavor of bok choy would not compete with the main dish but instead offer a subtle, verdant lift.
If you’re looking to add a carbohydrate component, Yakisoba could serve as a robust and satisfying option. The stir-fried noodles, with their own set of complementary flavors, would round out the meal, making it more filling and providing a pleasant variety of textures.
Lastly, for a beverage, Soy Milk or Rice Milk could be offered as dairy-free alternatives that echo the nuttiness of the peanut sauce while providing a cool, creamy contrast to the warm and hearty fare.
9 FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Fish in Peanut Sauce
- What type of fish works best for this recipe?For Fish in Peanut Sauce, it’s best to use firm white fish like tilapia, cod, or snapper. Their mild flavors complement the peanut sauce beautifully.
- Can I make this dish with a peanut allergy in the family?If allergies are a concern, you can explore alternatives such as almond or sunflower seed butter to create a similar sauce without peanuts.
- How can I adjust the spice level to suit different preferences?For a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili or hot sauce. To turn up the heat, add more spices gradually until you achieve your desired level of spiciness.
- Are there any vegan or vegetarian variations of this recipe?Absolutely! You can substitute the fish with tofu, tempeh, or your favorite vegetables to make a delicious vegan or vegetarian version.
- How should I store any leftovers, and can I freeze them?Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, place the cooled dish in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
- What does peanut sauce go with?Peanut sauce is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, satay skewers, spring rolls, noodles, and even as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
- How long to fry fish in peanut oil?The frying time for fish in peanut oil depends on the thickness of the fillets. As a general guideline, fry fish for 3-5 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- What do you soak fish in before frying?Before frying, it’s common to soak fish in a seasoned marinade or buttermilk. This not only imparts flavor but also helps tenderize the fish. A simple marinade can include ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices.
- What is peanut sauce called?Peanut sauce is known by various names in different cuisines. In Thai cuisine, it’s often called “satay sauce” due to its use in satay dishes. In Indonesian cuisine, it might be referred to as “bumbu kacang.”
As the final notes of our culinary symphony fade away, the plates are cleared, and the gentle hum of conversation fills the room, we come to the end of our journey with the Fried Fish in Peanut Sauce. It’s been a pleasure guiding you through this recipe, a blend of simplicity and sophistication that has graced our tables and enriched our dining experience.
In every dollop of peanut sauce and each flake of perfectly fried fish, there lies a story—a story of tradition, of exploration, and of the joy that comes from sharing a meal crafted with love. At Food And Meal, we believe that every dish has the potential to become a cherished memory, and it is my hope that this recipe finds a place in your collection of favorites, to be revisited time and again.
As we part ways, I invite you to carry the essence of this dish with you—the warmth, the comfort, and the smiles it has brought to your table. May it inspire you to create, to explore, and to savor the rich tapestry of flavors that the world of food has to offer.
Thank you for joining me in this delicious endeavor. Until our next culinary adventure, keep the spirit of creativity alive in your kitchen and remember that at Food And Meal, we’re always here to share in the delight of cooking. For more recipes, tips, and stories, visit us at foodandmeal.com, where the love for food meets the art of meal preparation. Bon appétit!
I'm Kelly Atkinson, with a passion for dissecting the world of home goods. My reviews stem from thorough testing and a love for sharing detailed insights. Each piece I write offers a glimpse into my explorative journey, aiming to guide readers to informed choices with authenticity and precision, making every review a blend of exploration and expertise.