Delicious and Crispy Recipe: How to Make Chinese Fish Cakes from Scratch

Looking to try your hand at making a delicious Chinese fish cake recipe? You've come to the right place. Fish cakes are a popular dish in Chinese cuisine and come in many variations depending on the region and cook. Generally, fish cakes involve combining fish meat with ingredients like vegetables, eggs, and spices before shaping the mixture into cakes or pattie. The cakes are then either fried or steamed until they are crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

To make a delicious Chinese fish cake, it's important to start with the right type of fish. While there are many different types of fish that can be used in fish cakes, some of the most popular include Asian carp, mackerel, and cod. You can also use other types of seafood, such as shrimp or scallops, to add more flavour and texture to the cakes. Once you have selected your fish, you will need to prepare the other ingredients, such as eggs, vegetables, and spices, and then mix everything together to create the fish cake paste.

Once you have created your fish cake paste, you can then season and flavour it to your liking. Some popular seasonings and spices for Chinese fish cakes include salt, pepper, soy sauce, and ginger. You can also add other ingredients, such as garlic, chilli, or spring onions, to give your fish cakes a more complex flavour. Finally, you can cook your fish cakes using a variety of techniques, such as frying, steaming, or baking, depending on your preference. Serve your fish cakes hot, with a side of rice or noodles, for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Key Takeaways

• Select the right type of fish for your Chinese fish cake recipe, such as Asian carp, mackerel, or cod.
• Mix your fish meat with other ingredients, such as eggs, vegetables, and spices, to create the fish cake paste.
• Season and flavour your fish cakes to your liking, and cook them using your preferred technique, such as frying or steaming.

Selecting the Right Fish

When it comes to making Chinese fish cakes, choosing the right fish is crucial. The right fish will ensure that your fish cakes have a delicious flavour and the right texture. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting the right fish for your Chinese fish cakes.

Freshness and Variety

The first thing to consider is the freshness of the fish. Fresh fish will have a better flavour and texture than fish that has been sitting around for a while. When selecting fish for your Chinese fish cakes, look for fresh fish that has been properly stored.

In addition to freshness, you should also consider the variety of fish. While any white fish can be used for Chinese fish cakes, some varieties are better than others. Mackerel and cod are both great options as they have a mild flavour and a firm texture that works well in fish cakes.

Prepping the Fish Meat

Once you have selected the right fish, it's time to prep the fish meat. Start by removing the skin and bones from the fish. Then, use a sharp knife to finely chop the fish meat into small pieces.

If you want to add some seafood to your fish cakes, consider using shrimp or crab meat. These seafood options will add a delicious flavour to your fish cakes and will pair well with the white fish.

In summary, selecting the right fish is essential to making delicious Chinese fish cakes. Look for fresh fish that has been properly stored and consider using varieties such as mackerel and cod. When prepping the fish meat, finely chop it into small pieces and consider adding some seafood such as shrimp or crab meat for added flavour.

Creating the Fish Cake Paste

When it comes to making Chinese-style fish cakes, the paste is the most important component. Creating the perfect paste requires a careful balance of ingredients and a bit of patience. In this section, we'll explore the process of making fish cake paste and how to achieve the perfect texture.

Mixing Ingredients

The first step in creating fish cake paste is to mix together your ingredients. Start with a base of fish puree, which can be made from a variety of seafood such as cod, haddock, or salmon. Add in salt and pepper to taste, along with egg whites and cornstarch to help bind the mixture together.

For those who prefer a softer texture, you can add a bit of water to the mixture. Alternatively, if you prefer a firmer texture, you can add more cornstarch. The key is to experiment with different ratios until you find the perfect balance.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Once you've mixed your ingredients together, it's time to work on achieving the perfect texture. Start by stirring the mixture in one direction, using a circular motion. This will help to create a smooth, consistent texture.

If you find that your mixture is too thick, you can add a bit of water to thin it out. Alternatively, if it's too thin, you can add more cornstarch. The goal is to achieve a texture that is easy to work with and will hold its shape when cooked.

As a suggestion, you can also experiment with adding other seafood to your fish cake paste, such as prawns or crab meat. This can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your fish cakes.

Overall, creating the perfect fish cake paste requires a bit of practice and experimentation. But with the right ingredients and technique, you can create delicious, authentic Chinese-style fish cakes that are sure to impress.

Seasoning and Flavouring

When it comes to seasoning and flavouring your fish cake, there are a variety of herbs, spices, sauces, and condiments that you can use to add depth and complexity to your dish.

Herbs and Spices

Ginger and garlic are two essential ingredients in Chinese cooking, and they can add a lot of flavour to your fish cake. You can finely chop or mince them and add them to your fish cake mixture, or you can fry them in oil and use them as a garnish.

White pepper is another popular spice in Chinese cuisine, and it can add a bit of heat and complexity to your fish cake. You can sprinkle it over your fish cake mixture before cooking, or you can use it as a seasoning for your dipping sauce.

Sauces and Condiments

Oyster sauce is a popular ingredient in Chinese cooking, and it can add a lot of umami flavour to your fish cake. You can mix it with some light soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water to make a simple sauce for your fish cake.

Light soy sauce is another essential ingredient in Chinese cooking, and it can add a lot of saltiness and depth to your fish cake. You can use it in your dipping sauce or mix it with some sugar and other seasonings to marinate your fish before cooking.

When it comes to seafood, you can add other types of seafood to your fish cake mixture to enhance the flavour and texture. For example, you can add some chopped shrimp or crabmeat to your fish cake mixture. Alternatively, you can serve your fish cake with some seafood-based dipping sauce, such as a spicy shrimp paste or a crab roe sauce.

Overall, there are many different ways to season and flavour your fish cake, so feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, sauces, and condiments to find the perfect combination for your taste.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the Fish Cakes

To steam the fish cakes, you will need a steamer and a lid. First, prepare the steamer by filling it with water and bringing it to a boil. While waiting for the water to boil, place the fish cakes on a plate and add some leaves and stems for flavour. Once the water is boiling, place the plate with the fish cakes on the steamer and cover it with a lid. Steam the fish cakes for about 10 minutes or until they are firm to the touch.

If you want to add seafood to the fish cakes, you can use prawns or scallops. Simply chop them into small pieces and mix them with the fish paste before shaping them into cakes.

Stir-Frying Greens

To stir-fry greens, you will need a wok and some oil. Heat the wok until it is smoking hot and add some oil. Then, add the greens and stir-fry them for a few minutes until they are cooked but still crunchy.

To add some wok hei flavour to the greens, you will need some wok hei skill. This skill involves tossing the greens in the wok quickly and continuously to create a smoky flavour.

If you want to add seafood to the greens, you can use prawns or squid. Simply stir-fry them together with the greens for a few minutes until they are cooked.

Overall, steaming and stir-frying are two great cooking techniques for fish cakes. They are easy to do and can add some delicious flavours to your dish.

Serving and Presentation

Plating the Dish

When it comes to serving Chinese fish cakes, presentation is key. You can make your dish look more appetising by using a variety of colours and textures. A good way to do this is by serving the fish cakes on a bed of cooked greens or choy sum. You can also add a side of rice to make the dish more filling.

Another great way to present your fish cakes is by using small plates or bowls. This way, you can focus on the presentation of each individual cake. You can also add a sauce or topping to each cake to give it a unique flavour.

Garnishing Tips

Garnishing your fish cakes is a great way to add more flavour and texture to your dish. You can use a variety of herbs to add a fresh, fragrant taste to your cakes. Some popular herbs to use include coriander, parsley, and chives.

You can also add a sauce or topping to your fish cakes to give them an extra kick. A good sauce to use is sweet chilli sauce or soy sauce. You can also add a topping of chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for added crunch.

If you want to make your fish cakes more luxurious, you can add some seafood to the mix. Some great seafood options to use include prawns, crab, or scallops. These will give your cakes a rich, decadent flavour that will impress your guests.

Overall, serving and presenting your Chinese fish cakes is all about creativity and experimentation. Don't be afraid to try new things and make your own unique dish. With a little bit of practice, you'll be able to create a dish that is both delicious and visually stunning.

Health and Nutrition

When it comes to a healthy diet, fish cakes can be a great choice. They are low in fat and high in protein, making them ideal for those who want to maintain a healthy weight or build muscle. Fish cakes can also be a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining a healthy heart.

If you are concerned about cholesterol, fish cakes are a great option. Fish is naturally low in cholesterol, and by using seafood in your recipe, you can further reduce the cholesterol content of your dish. Some great seafood options for fish cakes include salmon, cod, and tuna.

In terms of protein, fish cakes are an excellent source. They are a great option for those who are looking for a high-protein meal, and they can be a great post-workout snack. If you are looking to increase your protein intake, consider adding seafood such as prawns or mussels to your recipe.

When it comes to calories, fish cakes are typically a low-calorie option. By using lean fish such as cod or haddock, you can keep the calorie count of your dish low. If you are looking to reduce the calorie count even further, consider baking your fish cakes instead of frying them.

Overall, fish cakes can be a great addition to a healthy diet. By using seafood in your recipe, you can increase the nutritional value of your dish even further. So why not try making your own fish cakes at home today?

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the secret to a simple yet tasty Chinese fish cake recipe?

The secret to a simple yet tasty Chinese fish cake recipe is to use fresh fish and a few simple ingredients. You can use a variety of fish, including Asian carp, squid, and shrimp, to create a unique flavour profile. Adding a small amount of corn flour can help to bind the ingredients together and give the fish cakes a nice texture.

How can I ensure my fish cakes don't crumble during cooking?

To ensure that your fish cakes don't crumble during cooking, it's important to make sure that the fish paste is well mixed and has the right texture. One way to achieve this is to use a food processor to blend the fish and other ingredients together until you have a smooth paste. You can also add a small amount of egg white or corn flour to the mixture to help it bind together.

Can you recommend a good place to purchase Chinese fish cakes?

If you're looking to purchase Chinese fish cakes, you can try your local Asian grocery store. They often carry a variety of fish cakes, including traditional Chinese fish cakes. You can also try purchasing them online from a reputable seller.

What ingredients go into a traditional Chinese fish cake?

A traditional Chinese fish cake typically includes fresh fish, such as Asian carp or squid, along with a few other simple ingredients. These may include egg, corn flour, salt, and spices such as ginger and garlic. Some recipes may also call for the addition of shrimp or pork fat to enhance the flavour.

What are some tips for making a fish paste with the right texture?

To make a fish paste with the right texture, it's important to use fresh fish and blend it thoroughly with the other ingredients. A food processor can be helpful in achieving a smooth and uniform texture. Adding a small amount of egg white or corn flour can also help to bind the ingredients together and give the fish paste the right consistency.

How do I make a Chinese-style fish cake stir fry?

To make a Chinese-style fish cake stir fry, start by slicing the fish cakes into thin strips. Heat a wok or frying pan over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Add the fish cakes and stir fry for 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Add your choice of vegetables, such as bok choy or snow peas, and stir fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. Finish with a splash of soy sauce and serve hot. For an added twist, you can also include other seafood such as shrimp or squid in the stir fry.