Fish with Black Bean Sauce is a delightful dish that beautifully marries the rich umami flavors of black bean sauce with tender fish fillets. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. The addition of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices creates a vibrant and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Fish with Black Bean Sauce recipe is not only simple but also versatile, making it a reliable choice for home cooks of all skill levels. The use of accessible ingredients ensures that you can whip up this dish without a trip to specialty stores. Additionally, the cooking process is straightforward, allowing even the busiest of us to create a delicious meal in less than 30 minutes. The combination of flavors is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a go-to for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy night in.
What Goes Into Fish with Black Bean Sauce
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 5 slices fresh ginger
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 1 small green bell pepper, cut into small pieces
- 5 dried red chilies, seeded
- 1/2 lb (250g) sole fish fillet, cut into pieces, marinated with 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons Lee Kum Kee Garlic Black Bean Sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 3 tablespoons water
- 2 stalks scallions, cut into 1.5-inch (3 cm) lengths
Cook’s Kit
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- Wok or large skillet – Ideal for stir-frying and achieving the right heat distribution.
- Spatula – For stirring and flipping the fish without breaking it apart.
- Measuring spoons – To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
- Sharp knife – For slicing the vegetables and fish.
- Cutting board – A safe surface for prepping your ingredients.
Fish with Black Bean Sauce: From Prep to Plate
Now, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps to create your Fish with Black Bean Sauce:
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Begin by marinating the sole fish fillet pieces with 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch. This will help create a lovely texture when cooked. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the 5 slices of fresh ginger, quartered onion, and seeded dried red chilies to the hot oil. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the green bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes. The vibrant colors will start to fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 5: Cook the Fish
Carefully add the marinated fish to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Be gentle to avoid breaking the fillets.
Step 6: Incorporate the Sauce
Once the fish is cooked, stir in the 2 tablespoons of Lee Kum Kee Garlic Black Bean Sauce, 1 teaspoon of fish sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil. Mix well to coat the fish and vegetables evenly.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Pour in the cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, add the 2 stalks of scallions and give everything a quick toss. Serve the Fish with Black Bean Sauce hot, alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
If you have specific dietary restrictions, consider these alternatives:
- Fish sauce – Use soy sauce or coconut aminos for a vegan option.
- Black bean sauce – Ensure your brand is gluten-free if needed; you can also make homemade black bean sauce.
- Vegetables – Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli or snap peas.
- Fish – Substitute with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Notes on Ingredients
When selecting ingredients for your Fish with Black Bean Sauce, keep in mind:
- Freshness matters – The fresher your fish and vegetables, the better your dish will taste.
- Quality sauce – Investing in a good quality black bean sauce will enhance the flavors significantly.
- Adjust spice levels – If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of dried red chilies.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of this delicious Fish with Black Bean Sauce, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently – Use a microwave or a skillet on low heat to warm up the dish without overcooking the fish.
- Freeze – You can freeze for up to one month, though the texture of the fish may change slightly upon thawing.
Quick Q&A
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sole is a great choice due to its delicate flavor, you can substitute it with other white fish like cod or tilapia.
Is the black bean sauce spicy?
The black bean sauce has a savory flavor with mild heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of dried red chilies or leave them out entirely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the fish and vegetables in advance and store them separately. Combine and cook just before serving for the best results.
What can I serve with Fish with Black Bean Sauce?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a side of black bean soup for a complete meal.
If you’re interested in more quick and easy recipes, check out these delicious options:
Bring It to the Table
Fish with Black Bean Sauce is a fantastic dish that showcases the beautiful marriage of flavors and textures. With its simplicity and deliciousness, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is bound to impress. The bright colors and aromatic scents will fill your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. So, gather around the table, serve this delectable dish, and enjoy the compliments that come your way!
Fish with Black Bean Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by marinating the sole fish fillet pieces with 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
- In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the 5 slices of fresh ginger, quartered onion, and seeded dried red chilies to the hot oil. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Next, toss in the green bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Carefully add the marinated fish to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through.
- Once the fish is cooked, stir in the 2 tablespoons of Lee Kum Kee Garlic Black Bean Sauce, 1 teaspoon of fish sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil. Mix well to coat the fish and vegetables evenly.
- Pour in the cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Finally, add the 2 stalks of scallions and give everything a quick toss. Serve the Fish with Black Bean Sauce hot, alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Freshness matters - The fresher your fish and vegetables, the better your dish will taste.
- Quality sauce - Investing in a good quality black bean sauce will enhance the flavors significantly.
- Adjust spice levels - If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of dried red chilies.
