Best Easy Sliced Fish in Hot Chili Oil Recipe

Delicate fish slices are poached and bathed in a dramatic pool of sizzling chili oil and Sichuan peppercorn. This Sichuan classic is high in protein, low carb, and makes a show-stopping family dinner.

Cook 35 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#high protein #low carb
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • white fish fillet (such as tilapia or cod) 1 lb
  • bean sprouts 2 cups
  • baby bok choy 2 cups
  • egg white 1 piece
  • cornstarch 2 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Sichuan peppercorn 1 tbsp
  • dried red chili flakes 2 tbsp
  • chili oil 4 tbsp
  • garlic (minced) 4 cloves
  • ginger (minced) 1 tbsp
  • soy sauce 1 tbsp
  • Shaoxing wine 2 tbsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • white pepper 0.5 tsp
  • vegetable oil 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 8 g 9%
Protein 32 g 38%
Fat 19 g 53%
Serving size 250g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Slice the white fish fillet diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. In a bowl, combine fish, egg white, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 1/2 tsp salt, and white pepper. Mix gently and let marinate for 15 minutes.

  2. 2

    Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Blanch bean sprouts and bok choy for 1 minute each. Drain well and lay them at the bottom of a wide, heatproof serving bowl.

  3. 3

    In a separate saucepan, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat. Add half the minced garlic and all of the ginger. Stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in 3 cups water and 1 tbsp soy sauce, and bring to a simmer.

  4. 4

    Add marinated fish slices to the simmering broth, keeping the heat at a gentle simmer. Poach until just opaque, 2-3 minutes. Carefully arrange cooked fish over the blanched vegetables. Pour hot broth over.

  5. 5

    Scatter dried chili flakes and Sichuan peppercorn evenly on top of the fish. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil and all the chili oil in a small pan until shimmering. Quickly add remaining garlic, then immediately pour the sizzling oil over the chili and peppercorns. Serve at once.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The defining ingredient is the white fish fillet, such as tilapia or cod, which provides delicate texture and a clean canvas for the bold flavors of Sichuan peppercorn and chili oil. The combination of fish with the aromatic spices creates the signature sensory depth of this Sichuan classic.
Q. What heat and sequence tips ensure perfect results?
Poach the fish at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to keep the slices tender and prevent breakage. Adding the chili oil and vegetable oil mixture while it's hot directly over the spices and garlic activates their aroma instantly for a vibrant finish.
Q. How do you prevent overcooked or dry fish in this dish?
The key is to slice the fish evenly and monitor the simmering broth carefully—poach only until the fish turns opaque, about 2–3 minutes. Overcooking can result in tough, dry fish. Marinating with egg white and cornstarch helps seal in moisture for a silky texture.
Q. How many calories and macronutrients are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 340 kcal, with 8g of carbohydrates (9%), 32g of protein (38%), and 19g of fat (53%). This macronutrient balance makes it high in protein and suitable for low-carb diets.
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