Anhui Steamed Fish With Ham Recipe

Cook Time: 32 minutes  

   Prep Time: 20 minutes

Anhui Steamed Fish With Ham Ingredients

Anhui Steamed Fish With Ham Instructions

  1. Rinse the whole sea bass under cold water, pat it dry with paper towels, and make three diagonal slashes on each side of the fish to help it absorb flavors.
  2. Rub the fish inside and out with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp white pepper, making sure to get some seasoning into the slashes and the cavity.
  3. Place the fish on a large plate that fits inside your steamer. Drizzle 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine evenly over the fish, then scatter half of the julienned ginger and scallions inside the cavity and over the top. Let the fish marinate for 15 minutes.
  4. While the fish is marinating, thinly slice the Jinhua ham (or prosciutto) if not already done. Set aside.
  5. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tbsp chicken stock until the sugar dissolves. Set aside for later.
  6. After marinating, arrange the remaining ginger and scallions on top of the fish. Lay the slices of ham evenly over the fish, covering the surface as much as possible.
  7. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the fish and ham, making sure it seeps into the slashes and cavity.
  8. Bring water in your steamer to a boil. Place the plate with the assembled fish into the steamer, cover, and steam over high heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  9. Carefully remove the plate from the steamer. Discard any excess liquid if desired, or spoon some over the fish for extra flavor.
  10. Heat 1 tbsp peanut oil in a small pan until just smoking, then drizzle it over the steamed fish and ham to release the aroma.
  11. Drizzle 1/2 tsp sesame oil over the fish for added fragrance.
  12. Garnish the fish with fresh cilantro leaves and thinly sliced red chili, if using, before serving immediately.

Estimated Calories: 218, Servings: 4

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Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, the best way to keep your steamed fish with ham tasting delicious is to pop it in an airtight container and slide it into the fridge as soon as it cools down. This easy step helps lock in those great flavors and keeps any funky fridge odors from crashing your healthy recipe's party. If you want to be extra quick and efficient, portion it out before storing so you can grab a fast meal later without any fuss-no one wants to wrestle with cling film when they are hungry!Now, let's talk about shelf life, because nobody wants to play "guess the expiration date" with their dinner. Your steamed fish with ham will stay good for about two to three days in the fridge, which is just enough time to savor those leftovers without feeling rushed. If you are feeling adventurous and want to freeze it, just remember that while it is a great way to extend the life of your meal, the texture might not be as fabulous as when it was fresh-think of it as a quick fix for a future craving, not a long term commitment.Spoilage signs are your best friends when it comes to food safety, and this recipe is no exception. If your once delicious dish starts to smell a bit off, looks slimy, or has developed any mysterious colors, it is time to say goodbye. Trust your senses-if it does not look or smell right, it is not worth the risk, no matter how healthy or easy it was to make. Remember, a quick sniff test can save you from a not so great dinner disaster!

Steamed Fish With Ham Story

It all started on a rainy Tuesday when my stomach was grumbling louder than the thunder outside. I had just watched a cooking show where the chef made something that looked so delicious, I could practically taste it through the screen. Of course, I did not have a recipe, but I was feeling bold and convinced myself that my memory was as good as any cookbook. With a sense of adventure and a fridge full of random ingredients, I set out to recreate what I remembered, hoping for the best and preparing for the worst.
The process was anything but easy. I was juggling pots, pans, and a questionable sense of confidence, all while my cat watched with a look that said, "Are you sure about this?" I tried to move fast, thinking that if I cooked quickly enough, I could outpace any mistakes. There were moments when I thought I had invented a new form of kitchen chaos, but I pressed on, determined to make something at least edible. The kitchen timer became my best friend, and I learned that improvisation is a great way to discover just how creative you can get under pressure.
When it was finally time to taste my creation, I braced myself for disaster. To my surprise, it was actually pretty good-maybe not restaurant quality, but definitely healthy and satisfying. I felt like a culinary genius, even if my dish looked nothing like the one on TV. The whole experience taught me that sometimes the best meals come from a little bit of courage, a dash of humor, and a willingness to try something new without a recipe. Plus, it was a quick way to boost my confidence in the kitchen, and now I am always up for a new food adventure!

Steamed Fish With Ham Tips

Looking to master the best Anhui Steamed Fish With Ham recipe? Let's make your kitchen the envy of every food lover! For a truly authentic and delicious experience, always use the freshest fish you can find-think of it as the VIP guest at your dinner party. The ham? Go for a high-quality, slightly smoky variety to add that irresistible umami punch. This easy and quick dish is all about balance, so don't let one ingredient steal the spotlight.
Want to know how to make this homemade classic taste like it came straight from Anhui? Here's a tasty tip: pat your fish dry before steaming to keep the texture perfect and prevent sogginess. Layer the ham slices with a little flair-think of it as fish fashion week! For the best results, steam just until the fish flakes easily; overcooking is the enemy of a simple, yet perfect, recipe.
If you're after a quick and easy meal that still feels special, this is your go-to. The secret to a delicious, authentic flavor is in the little things: a dash of Shaoxing wine, a sprinkle of scallions, and a whisper of ginger. These ingredients work together like a culinary boy band-each one bringing its own charm to the stage.
For extra homemade magic, serve your Anhui-inspired Steamed Fish With Ham with a side of fluffy rice and a drizzle of the steaming juices. Want to impress your guests? Share your best tips on how to make this recipe pop-like pre-warming your serving plate to keep everything piping hot. With these simple tricks, you'll have a dish that's not just tasty, but truly unforgettable!

About Steamed Fish With Ham Recipe

Steamed Fish With Ham is a true gem from Anhui cuisine, celebrated for its delicate flavors and elegant presentation. As a Michelin star chef, I can assure you that this recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. The best part about this dish is how easy and quick it is to prepare at home, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Using only the freshest ingredients, you can create a delicious and authentic homemade meal that captures the essence of Anhui culinary tradition. The combination of tender fish and savory ham results in a tasty harmony that will impress even the most discerning palate.
If you're wondering how to make Steamed Fish With Ham, let me share some of my best tips for achieving restaurant-quality results. Start by selecting the freshest fish available-this is the foundation of any great recipe. Layering thin slices of ham over the fish not only adds a rich, umami depth but also keeps the fish moist and flavorful during steaming. The key to this authentic Anhui dish is to keep the ingredients simple and let their natural flavors shine. A touch of ginger, a splash of soy sauce, and a sprinkle of scallions are all you need to elevate this easy recipe to perfection.
For those seeking the best homemade version, remember that timing is everything. Steaming the fish just until it flakes ensures a tender, juicy texture, while the ham infuses every bite with a subtle smokiness. This quick and simple recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, following these tips will guarantee a tasty and authentic Anhui Steamed Fish With Ham every time. Enjoy the process and savor the results-this dish truly embodies the best of Chinese home cooking.

Steamed Fish With Ham Quick Mistake Fixes

If your steamed fish with ham ends up too salty, it can feel like you are swimming in the ocean rather than enjoying a delicious meal. The best way to rescue this situation is to serve the fish with a big bowl of plain rice, which acts like a sponge for excess salt. A quick fix is to add a splash of water or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top, which can help mellow out the saltiness and bring back a good balance. Remember, even the most experienced chefs can get a little heavy handed with the salt, so do not be afraid to taste as you go and adjust at the last minute for a healthy, tasty result.
Overcooking is the arch nemesis of any steamed fish dish, turning what should be a tender, flaky delight into something that could double as a shoe insert. If you find your fish is a bit too firm or dry, a fast and easy trick is to drizzle a little warm broth or a light sauce over the top just before serving. This not only adds moisture but also brings back some of that great flavor you were aiming for. A good recipe is all about timing, but if you miss the mark, a little creativity can save the day and keep your meal delicious.
Balancing flavors with last minute changes is like being a culinary magician, pulling a rabbit out of your chef's hat when things go sideways. If your dish tastes a bit bland or the flavors are not quite singing in harmony, a quick sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of vinegar can work wonders. Sometimes, a squeeze of citrus or a touch of sugar is all it takes to turn a so-so meal into something truly special. The best part is, these tweaks are easy and fast, making it simple to transform your dish into a healthy, mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!