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Chinese Style Sweet and Sour Fish Recipe

By Gabriela Esteban  •   9 minute read

If you're looking for a flavourful and easy-to-make seafood dish, sweet and sour fish is a great option. This Chinese-style dish features crispy fried fish fillets smothered in a tangy and sweet sauce that's sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, sweet and sour fish is a dish that's definitely worth adding to your recipe collection.

A whole fish coated in sweet and sour sauce, surrounded by colorful vegetables and served on a traditional Chinese plate

The history and origin of sweet and sour fish can be traced back to China, where it's been a popular dish for centuries. Today, it's enjoyed all around the world, with variations that incorporate different types of fish and sauces. When preparing sweet and sour fish, it's important to select the right type of fish that will hold up well during cooking and complement the flavours of the sauce. Some popular options include tilapia, cod, and catfish.

Key Takeaways

  • Sweet and sour fish is a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish that's perfect for satisfying your cravings.
  • The dish originated in China and has been enjoyed for centuries, with variations that incorporate different types of fish and sauces.
  • When preparing sweet and sour fish, it's important to select the right type of fish and use fresh ingredients to ensure the best flavour.

History and Origin of Sweet and Sour Fish

A sizzling wok cooks a crispy fish fillet, coated in a glossy sweet and sour sauce. Surrounding it are vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, evoking the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine

Sweet and sour fish is a popular Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The dish is known for its unique blend of sweet and sour flavours that tantalize the taste buds. Here is a brief history of the dish and its cultural significance.

Cultural Significance

Sweet and sour fish is a dish that is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. It is believed that the dish originated in the Guangdong province of China, which is known for its culinary traditions. The dish is often served during special occasions such as weddings and birthdays, as it is a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Evolution of the Dish

The dish has evolved over time, with different regions of China adding their unique twist to the recipe. The original sweet and sour sauce was made using light vinegar and sugar, which was used as a dipping sauce for meat and fish. However, over time, the recipe has been refined, and additional ingredients such as tomato ketchup, pineapple, and Worcestershire sauce have been added to enhance the flavour.

When it comes to cooking the dish, there are many variations, but the most common method is to fry the fish fillet until crispy and then stir-fry it with the sweet and sour sauce. The dish is usually served with steamed rice and vegetables.

If you're looking to add some seafood to your sweet and sour fish recipe, you can try using prawns or squid. Prawns are a great choice as they are easy to cook and have a sweet flavour that complements the sweet and sour sauce. Squid is also a good option as it has a firm texture that holds up well in the dish.

Selecting the Perfect Fish

A hand dips a piece of crispy fish into a bowl of sweet and sour sauce, with chopsticks and a plate of vegetables in the background

When it comes to making sweet and sour fish, selecting the right type of fish is crucial. You want a fish that is firm and can hold up to deep-frying, but also has a tender texture and mild flavour that will complement the sweet and sour sauce.

Types of Fish Suitable

Cod, snapper, trout, sea bass, catfish, white fish, red snapper, tilapia, and perch are all suitable options for making sweet and sour fish. These fish have firm flesh that can withstand the deep-frying process without falling apart, and they have a mild flavour that won't overpower the sweet and sour sauce.

If you're looking for a seafood option, prawns or shrimp can also be used in this recipe. They have a sweet flavour that pairs well with the tangy sauce, and their firm texture holds up well to deep-frying.

Freshness Indicators

When selecting your fish, there are a few indicators of freshness to keep in mind. Look for clear, bright eyes, shiny skin, and a mild, oceanic smell. The flesh should be firm to the touch and bounce back when pressed, and there should be no discolouration or sliminess.

If you're purchasing your fish from a fishmonger, don't be afraid to ask questions about the freshness and origin of the fish. A reputable fishmonger will be happy to provide this information and ensure that you're getting the best quality fish for your sweet and sour recipe.

Overall, selecting the perfect fish for your sweet and sour recipe is an important step in ensuring that your dish turns out delicious. Whether you opt for a traditional white fish or experiment with seafood options like prawns or shrimp, be sure to choose a fish that is fresh, firm, and flavourful.

Preparing the Sweet and Sour Sauce

A hand pours soy sauce into a pot of simmering sugar, vinegar, and ginger. Red and yellow bell peppers and pineapple chunks wait nearby

If you're looking to make a delicious Chinese-style sweet and sour fish, then you're going to need a great sweet and sour sauce to go with it. Here's how to make the perfect sweet and sour sauce for your fish dish.

Classic Ingredients

The classic sweet and sour sauce recipe includes a combination of vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce. However, to create the perfect balance of flavours, you can also add pineapple juice, rice vinegar, tomato sauce, lemon juice, and plum sauce to the mix.

To make a homemade sweet and sour sauce, you'll need to combine these ingredients in the right proportions. You can also add corn starch to thicken the sauce and make it stick to the fish.

Creating the Balance of Flavours

To create the perfect balance of flavours, you'll need to experiment with the proportions of each ingredient until you find the right combination. You can start with a basic recipe and adjust the amounts of each ingredient to suit your taste.

For example, if you like your sweet and sour sauce to be more tangy, you can add more vinegar or lemon juice. If you prefer it to be sweeter, you can add more sugar or pineapple juice.

When it comes to the fish, you can use any type of white fish fillet, such as cod, haddock, or tilapia. However, for a more authentic Chinese-style sweet and sour fish, you can use carp or catfish.

Overall, making a sweet and sour sauce is easy and fun. With a little experimentation, you can create a delicious sauce that perfectly complements your fish dish.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

A wok sizzles as sweet and sour sauce coats a whole fish. Ginger, garlic, and soy sauce add depth to the Chinese-style dish

Battering and Frying the Fish

To achieve the perfect texture for your sweet and sour fish, it is important to batter and fry the fish correctly. Start by coating the fish in a mixture of cornstarch, flour, and potato starch. This will create a light and crispy batter that will hold up well during frying.

When frying the fish, it is best to use a wok or a deep frying pan. Heat the oil to around 350-375°F (180-190°C) before adding the fish. This will ensure that the fish cooks quickly and evenly, resulting in a crispy exterior and a moist and tender interior.

Achieving the Perfect Crispiness

To achieve the perfect crispiness for your sweet and sour fish, it is important to use the right combination of ingredients and cooking techniques. Using cornstarch in the batter is essential, as it creates a light and airy texture that crisps up nicely when fried.

Another key factor is the temperature of the oil. If the oil is not hot enough, the fish will become greasy and soggy. On the other hand, if the oil is too hot, the batter will burn before the fish is fully cooked. Aim for a temperature of around 350-375°F (180-190°C) for the best results.

Sauce Simmering and Coating

The sweet and sour sauce is what gives this dish its signature flavour. To make the sauce, combine sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and cornstarch slurry in a pan. Simmer the sauce until it thickens, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Once the sauce has thickened, add in your choice of seafood, such as cod or tilapia, and simmer for a few more minutes until the fish is fully coated in the sauce. Serve immediately with steamed rice and enjoy!

Proposed Seafood: Cod, Tilapia, or any other white fish would work well in this recipe.

Serving and Presentation

A platter of golden-fried fish fillets drizzled with vibrant sweet and sour sauce, surrounded by colorful stir-fried vegetables and garnished with fresh herbs

When it comes to serving and presenting your Chinese-style sweet and sour fish, there are a few things you can do to make the dish look and taste even better. Here are some tips:

Accompaniments and Side Dishes

To complement the sweet and sour flavours of the fish, rice is a classic side dish that works well. You can also add some stir-fried vegetables such as onions, peppers, and bell peppers to add some colour and texture to the meal. Noodles can also be used as a side dish.

If you want to add some sweetness to your meal, you can include some pineapple chunks in your dish. They go well with the sweet and sour sauce and add a tropical twist to the meal.

Garnishing for Visual Appeal

To make your dish look more appealing, you can garnish it with some sliced scallions and lemon wedges. This adds a pop of colour and freshness to the dish. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added texture.

Seafood can also be used instead of fish fillets. Prawns or shrimps can be used as a substitute for fish fillets. They can be cooked in the same way as the fish fillets, and the sweet and sour sauce will work well with them.

In summary, serving and presenting your Chinese-style sweet and sour fish can be an enjoyable experience. By using the right accompaniments and garnishes, you can elevate the dish to a whole new level.

Frequently Asked Questions

A steaming hot plate of sweet and sour fish, garnished with colorful vegetables and served in a traditional Chinese-style sauce

What's the best type of fish to use for a sweet and sour fish dish?

When it comes to making a sweet and sour fish dish, you can use various types of fish. However, some of the most popular fish types used for this recipe include tilapia, cod, and red snapper. You can also use seafood such as prawns or shrimp for a twist on the classic recipe.

Can you suggest a good baked version of a sweet and sour fish recipe?

Yes, you can bake your sweet and sour fish for a healthier version of the dish. To do this, you can marinate your fish in the sweet and sour sauce for at least 30 minutes before baking it in the oven. You can also add some vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots to the baking dish to make it more nutritious.

What veggies go well in a sweet and sour fish recipe?

Some of the vegetables that go well in a sweet and sour fish recipe include bell peppers, onions, carrots, and pineapple. These vegetables add a nice texture and flavour to the dish. You can also add some bok choy or broccoli for an extra crunch.

How do you make a sweet and sour fish fillet?

To make a sweet and sour fish fillet, you will need to cut your fish into fillets and marinate them in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch. Once the fish is marinated, you can fry it in oil until it is golden brown and crispy. After frying, you can toss the fish in a sweet and sour sauce made with ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.

What are the essential ingredients for a classic sweet and sour fish?

The essential ingredients for a classic sweet and sour fish include fish fillets, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, cornstarch, ketchup, and pineapple juice. Some recipes may also call for ginger, garlic, and scallions for added flavour.

Is there a Filipino twist to making sweet and sour fish?

Yes, there is a Filipino twist to making sweet and sour fish. In the Philippines, sweet and sour fish is known as "Escabecheng Isda" and is made with whole fish that is fried and then cooked in a sweet and sour sauce made with vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. The dish is often garnished with carrots, bell peppers, and onions.

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