Steamed Fish with Snow Peas

Steamed Fish with Snow Peas Recipe from China

Region / culture: China | Servings: - 4

Introduction

Steamed Fish with Snow Peas is a light and healthy dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. The combination of tender fish fillets and crisp snow peas, topped with a flavorful sauce, makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Steamed fish dishes have been a staple in many Asian cuisines for centuries. The gentle cooking method of steaming helps to retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the fish, making it a popular choice for those looking for a healthy and delicious meal.

Ingredients

4 (4 – 6 oz (170 g)) skinless salmon or other fish fillets, about 1.5 inches thick
1 tsp grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 lb (454 g) snow peas

How to prepare

Rub the fillets with ginger and garlic.
Coat the steamer basket with cooking spray and arrange the fillets in the basket.
In a saucepan, bring 2 inches of water to a boil.
Place the steamer basket in the saucepan and steam, covered, for 8 minutes.
Meanwhile, make the sauce: combine lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions in a small bowl.
Set the sauce aside.
Top the fish with snow peas and steam, covered, until the fish is cooked through and the snow peas are crisp-tender, about 4 minutes longer.
To serve, make a bed of snow peas, top with the fish, and drizzle everything with the sauce.

Variations

Try using different types of fish, such as salmon or cod, for a different flavor profile.
Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to the steamer basket for added nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fish fillets that are about 1.5 inches thick to ensure even cooking.

- Rubbing the fillets with ginger and garlic before steaming adds a delicious flavor to the dish.

- Be sure to steam the fish just until it is cooked through to avoid overcooking and drying out the fish.

- The sauce can be customized to your taste by adjusting the amount of lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Steamed Fish with Snow Peas over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced red chilies for added flavor and color.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming is a gentle cooking method that helps to preserve the natural flavors and nutrients of the fish and vegetables.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the snow peas with sugar snap peas or green beans for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the snow peas and fish on a platter and drizzle with the sauce for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Steamed Fish with Snow Peas with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250 per serving

Carbohydrates

10g per serving

Fats

5g per serving

Proteins

30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and fish allergens.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and healthy fats, while also providing a good amount of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Steamed Fish with Snow Peas is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With tender fish fillets, crisp snow peas, and a flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Steamed Fish with Snow Peas. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my aunt who lived in the countryside. She was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and on that particular day, she decided to teach me how to make this traditional dish.

As we gathered the ingredients, my aunt explained to me that this recipe had been passed down through generations in our family. She told me stories of how my great-grandmother used to make this dish for special occasions, using only the freshest fish and vegetables from her garden.

We started by selecting a fresh fish from the market, choosing a plump and shiny sea bass that would steam perfectly. My aunt showed me how to clean and prepare the fish, removing the scales and gutting it carefully. She then seasoned the fish with soy sauce, ginger, and a sprinkle of sugar, allowing the flavors to marinate while we prepared the other ingredients.

Next, we gathered a handful of crisp snow peas from the garden, along with some fragrant garlic and scallions. My aunt sliced the vegetables thinly, creating a colorful and aromatic mixture that would complement the delicate flavor of the fish.

In a large steaming pot, my aunt placed a bed of fresh lettuce leaves to create a base for the fish. She then carefully arranged the seasoned fish on top of the lettuce, surrounded by the vibrant snow peas and garlic. Finally, she drizzled a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a dash of rice wine over the fish, sealing in the flavors before covering the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

As the fish steamed gently over a low flame, my aunt and I sat outside in the garden, enjoying the warm breeze and the sound of birds chirping in the distance. She shared stories of her own childhood, of learning to cook from her mother and grandmother, and the importance of passing down these traditions to future generations.

After about twenty minutes, my aunt lifted the lid of the pot, revealing a fragrant and steaming dish of perfectly cooked fish and vegetables. The fish was tender and flaky, infused with the flavors of soy sauce and ginger, while the snow peas remained crisp and bright green.

We served the steamed fish with a bowl of fluffy white rice, allowing the savory sauce to seep into the grains and create a delicious meal that warmed both our bodies and our hearts. As we savored each bite, my aunt smiled warmly at me, proud to have shared this family recipe with another generation.

That day, I learned more than just how to make Steamed Fish with Snow Peas. I learned about the importance of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. And as I continue to cook this dish for my own family, I will always remember the warm summer afternoon when my aunt passed down this precious recipe to me.