Exotic Steamed Fish with Ginger and Lime

Here’s a delicious recipe for Exotic Steamed Fish with Ginger and Lime — a vibrant, aromatic dish that brings together Southeast Asian flavors in a healthy, light preparation.


🌿 Exotic Steamed Fish with Ginger and Lime

🐟 Ingredients:

  • 2 white fish fillets (snapper, cod, tilapia, or sea bass work well)
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, julienned
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
  • 2 stalks lemongrass, lightly smashed and chopped into 3-inch pieces
  • Zest and juice of 2 limes
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for added depth)
  • 1 tsp sugar (palm sugar preferred)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Banana leaves or parchment paper (optional for steaming)
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

🍲 Instructions:

  1. Prep the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry, season lightly with salt and white pepper.
  2. Make the Aromatic Sauce:
    • In a bowl, mix lime juice, lime zest, fish sauce, soy sauce (if using), sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  3. Set Up for Steaming:
    • If using banana leaves, place a piece down, put the fish on top, and pour the sauce over it. Scatter lemongrass and green onions.
    • Fold the banana leaf or parchment into a parcel and secure it. Alternatively, place everything in a shallow heatproof plate or dish.
  4. Steam:
    • Bring water to a boil in a steamer or large pot with a rack.
    • Place the fish parcel or dish in the steamer, cover, and steam for about 10–12 minutes (depending on thickness), or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Carefully open the parcel, transfer fish and sauce to a serving plate, and top with fresh cilantro and more chili slices if you like heat.
    • Serve with jasmine rice or steamed greens for a complete meal.

Want to add a coconut rice side or a quick pickled cucumber salad to go with it? I got you.

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