Sichuan pickled fish in a tangy, spicy pickled vegetable broth is a comforting, protein-rich dish. A fresh, family-friendly meal with complex sour and spicy flavors.
Rinse the white fish fillets, pat dry, and slice into bite-sized portions; set aside.
Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ginger, garlic cloves, and green onion. Fry until aromatic, about 2 minutes.
Add pickled mustard greens and bean sprouts to the pot. Stir-fry for 3 minutes, then pour in 4 cups of water or unsalted broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, salt, Sichuan peppercorns, and dried red chili peppers. Adjust heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes to deepen the broth flavor.
Slide the fish fillets gently into the simmering broth. Cook uncovered for 6–8 minutes, until fish is opaque but still tender.
In a small skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil and briefly toast extra peppercorns or chilies if desired. Drizzle the hot oil over the cooked fish and vegetables to finish with a fragrant, spicy kick.