Southeast Asian Fish Rolls

Southeast Asian Fish Rolls Recipe - Flavorful and Delicious

Region / culture: Asia, Southeast Asia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Southeast Asian Fish Rolls are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the delicate taste of sole with the bold flavors of soy sauce, lime, garlic, and fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

The origins of Southeast Asian Fish Rolls can be traced back to the coastal regions of Southeast Asia, where fresh seafood is abundant and flavorful herbs and spices are used to enhance the natural flavors of the fish. This dish has been enjoyed for generations as a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the bounty of the sea.

Ingredients

8 two- to four-ounce thin fish fillets, such as flounder or sole
2 tbsp soy sauce
0.25 cup fresh lime juice (about 3 limes)
4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
0.25 cup chopped fresh basil
1 tsp grated fresh ginger root
3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
0.5 tsp freshly grated lime peel

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Rinse the fish fillets, pat them dry, and set them aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, basil, ginger, cilantro, and lime peel.
Place the fillets, skin side up, on a cutting board or counter and spoon 0.13 of the filling onto one end of each fillet.
Roll up each fillet and arrange them closely together in a non-reactive baking dish.
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Variations

Substitute the sole fillets with another type of white fish, such as tilapia or cod.
Add a spicy kick to the dish by adding a chopped chili pepper to the filling mixture.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to pat the fish fillets dry before rolling them to ensure that they cook evenly and do not become soggy.

- Use fresh herbs and spices for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs will give the dish a brighter and more vibrant taste.

- Make sure to tightly cover the baking dish with foil to trap in the steam and ensure that the fish stays moist and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southeast Asian Fish Rolls with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the preferred cooking technique for Southeast Asian Fish Rolls, as it allows the fish to cook gently and evenly without drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. Just be sure to adjust the quantities accordingly, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the fish rolls ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble and bake the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the finished dish with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Southeast Asian Fish Rolls with a crisp and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Southeast Asian Fish Rolls contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Southeast Asian Fish Rolls contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Southeast Asian Fish Rolls contains approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Southeast Asian Fish Rolls contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Southeast Asian Fish Rolls are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and soy sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Southeast Asian Fish Rolls are a low-carb, high-protein dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients. This dish is a healthy and delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Southeast Asian Fish Rolls are a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light and flavorful meal. With a combination of fresh herbs, tangy lime, and savory soy sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Southeast Asian Fish Rolls. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a bustling market in Bangkok with my husband. We were exploring the vibrant stalls and taking in the sights and smells of the bustling marketplace when I stumbled upon a small, unassuming food stall tucked away in a corner.

As I approached the stall, I was greeted by the most mouthwatering aroma of fragrant spices and fresh seafood. A kind elderly woman was busy at work, expertly crafting delicate fish rolls with precision and care. I watched in awe as she effortlessly rolled the fish fillets with a medley of herbs and spices, creating a tantalizing dish that seemed to exude the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine.

Curiosity piqued, I struck up a conversation with the woman and learned that she had been making these fish rolls for decades, passing down the recipe from generation to generation in her family. Intrigued by her passion for cooking and the rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, I asked if she would be willing to share her recipe with me.

To my delight, she agreed and graciously invited me to her humble home the following day to learn the art of making Southeast Asian Fish Rolls. I eagerly accepted her invitation, eager to immerse myself in the flavors and techniques of this exotic cuisine.

The next day, I arrived at her home, greeted by the fragrant scents of lemongrass, ginger, and garlic wafting through the air. The woman welcomed me warmly and wasted no time in teaching me the intricacies of making the fish rolls. Together, we marinated the fresh fish fillets in a blend of aromatic spices, including turmeric, coriander, and cumin, infusing them with layers of flavor.

As we worked side by side, she shared with me stories of her youth in the bustling streets of Bangkok, where she honed her culinary skills and learned the art of cooking from her grandmother. Her passion for food was palpable, and her love for sharing her knowledge with others shone through in every dish she prepared.

After marinating the fish fillets, we carefully wrapped them in delicate rice paper, adding a generous handful of fresh herbs and crunchy vegetables for texture. The woman demonstrated the technique of rolling the fish rolls with precision and finesse, creating beautiful parcels that were as visually stunning as they were delicious.

As the fish rolls sizzled in the hot oil, filling the kitchen with the intoxicating aroma of fragrant spices and crispy seafood, I knew that I had stumbled upon a culinary gem that would become a cherished part of my own recipe collection.

After a few minutes of frying, the fish rolls emerged from the oil, golden brown and crispy, with a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water. The woman plated them beautifully, garnishing them with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, I took my first bite of the Southeast Asian Fish Roll and was transported to a world of exotic flavors and vibrant colors. The delicate fish, infused with the warm spices and aromatic herbs, melted in my mouth, leaving behind a lingering hint of lemongrass and ginger.

As I savored each bite, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the woman who had shared her recipe with me, opening my eyes to the rich and diverse tapestry of Southeast Asian cuisine. Her passion for cooking and her dedication to preserving her family's culinary heritage had inspired me to explore new flavors and techniques, sparking a lifelong love affair with the vibrant and exotic world of Southeast Asian cuisine.

From that day on, the recipe for Southeast Asian Fish Rolls became a beloved staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the incredible journey that had led me to discover the beauty and diversity of world cuisine. And as I continue to cook and share this recipe with my own loved ones, I am reminded of the power of food to not only nourish our bodies but also to connect us to our shared humanity and the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our world.