Teochew Steamed Fish
easy Prep 10 min Cook 15 min 3 servings
Classic Teochew-style steamed fish with preserved vegetables, tomatoes, and a clean, savoury broth. Simple, healthy, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 whole red garoupa or threadfin (500–600g), cleaned
- 2 tbsp preserved vegetables (tung chye), rinsed
- 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 4 strips salted plum
- 3 cm ginger, julienned
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 cup water
- Coriander to garnish
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the fish and score both sides with 3 diagonal cuts.
- 2
In a steaming dish, layer tomatoes on the base.
- 3
Place fish on top. Scatter preserved vegetables, salted plum, and ginger over the fish.
- 4
Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and water. Pour around (not over) the fish.
- 5
Steam over high heat for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness.
- 6
Garnish with coriander and serve immediately with rice.
Chef's Tips
Don't overcook — the fish is done when the flesh flakes easily at the thickest part. Salted plum adds a unique tang that balances the fish perfectly.