<p class="ql-block">This dish is traditionally served during the New Year celebrations as a symbol of prosperity.</p><p class="ql-block"> In Chinese culture, fish symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Especially during the Lunar New Year, eating fish signifies "surplus year after year," representing abundance and good fortune.</p><p class="ql-block">Now let me teach you how to make it.</p> <p class="ql-block">Ingredients:</p><p class="ql-block">- 1 whole fish (about 1-2kg), cleaned and scaled</p><p class="ql-block">- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil</p><p class="ql-block">- 3-4 slices of ginger</p><p class="ql-block">- 3-4 stalks of green onions (chopped)</p><p class="ql-block">- 3-4 cloves of garlic (minced)</p><p class="ql-block">- 3 tablespoons soy sauce</p><p class="ql-block">- 2 tablespoons cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)</p><p class="ql-block">- 1 tablespoon sugar</p><p class="ql-block">- 1 cup water</p><p class="ql-block">- Salt to taste</p><p class="ql-block">- A few whole peppercorns (optional)</p><p class="ql-block">- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)</p> <p class="ql-block">Choosing Fish: Selecting fresh carp is key. The fish should be lively, with bright eyes, intact scales, and no off-putting smell. You can choose different sizes of fish based on personal preference and local availability.</p> Instructions <p class="ql-block">Prepare the Fish:</p><p class="ql-block"> - Rinse the fish thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make a few diagonal cuts on both sides of the fish to help it cook evenly and absorb the flavors.</p> <p class="ql-block">Heat the Oil:</p><p class="ql-block"> - In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the fish to the pan. Fry it for about 3-5 minutes on each side until it is golden brown. Remove the fish and set it aside.</p> <p class="ql-block">Pan-frying the Fish: Ensuring the oil is at the right temperature when frying the fish is crucial for achieving a golden and crispy skin. Be careful when flipping the fish to avoid breaking it apart.</p> <p class="ql-block">Stir-fried aroma：</p><p class="ql-block"> - In the same pan, add the ginger slices, minced garlic, and chopped green onions. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.</p> <p class="ql-block">Add Seasonings:</p><p class="ql-block"> - Pour in the soy sauce, cooking wine, and sugar. Stir well to combine. If using peppercorns, add them at this stage.</p> <p class="ql-block">Add Water:</p><p class="ql-block"> - Carefully place the fried carp back into the pan and pour in the water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.</p> <p class="ql-block">Braise the Fish:</p><p class="ql-block"> - Cover the pan and let it braise on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Occasionally spoon some of the sauce over the fish to ensure it is well-coated.</p> <p class="ql-block">Adjust Seasoning:</p><p class="ql-block"> - After braising, taste the sauce and adjust the salt or sugar according to your preference.</p> <p class="ql-block">Serve:</p><p class="ql-block"> - Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter. Drizzle the sauce over the fish and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.</p> <p class="ql-block">Storage Method</p><p class="ql-block">- If there are leftovers of braised fish, you can store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator, best consumed within 2-3 days. When reheating, using a steamer helps to maintain the fish's tenderness.</p> <p class="ql-block">This dish is not only delicious but also allows you to experience the rich culinary culture of China during its preparation. Whether for family gatherings or festive celebrations, braised fish is a popular dish.I hope you can also try this recipe.😆</p>