Garlic Fish (Ca Nuong Toi): A Simple Vietnamese Recipe

Looking for a delicious and easy Vietnamese recipe to spice up your dinner routine? Look no further than Garlic Fish, or Ca Nuong Toi! This dish is a flavorful and aromatic meal that is sure to impress your friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will transport you to the bustling streets of Vietnam.

Ingredients

• 2 whole fish (such as snapper or tilapia), cleaned and scaled
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro and green onions for garnish

Instructions

To start, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a sharp knife, make three diagonal cuts on each side of the fish. This will help the fish cook evenly and allow the marinade to penetrate the flesh.

In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Rub this marinade all over the fish, making sure to get it into the cuts you made earlier. Let the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the fish to the skillet. Cook the fish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake the fish for 15-20 minutes, or until it is cooked through. You can test the doneness by inserting a knife into the thickest part of the fish – if it flakes easily, it’s ready!

Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables.

Conclusion

Garlic Fish (Ca Nuong Toi) is a simple yet flavorful Vietnamese dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that is sure to impress. So why not give this recipe a try and add a taste of Vietnam to your cooking repertoire? Your taste buds will thank you!