Best Easy Red Braised Fish Recipe

Whole red braised fish in a savory-sweet sauce symbolizes prosperity. A high protein, fresh family dish perfect for festive celebrations.

Cook 44 min Difficulty NORMAL 278 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • whole snapper or sea bream (cleaned, scaled) 2 lbs
  • scallions 4 pieces
  • fresh ginger 6 slices
  • garlic 3 cloves
  • neutral oil 3 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • light soy sauce 3 tbsp
  • dark soy sauce 1 tbsp
  • Shaoxing wine 2 tbsp
  • sugar 2 tsp
  • water 3 cups
  • white pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 8 g 11%
Protein 33 g 48%
Fat 12 g 41%
Serving size 210g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Pat the whole fish dry with paper towels and score slashes on both sides; season the cavity lightly with a pinch of salt and a few slices of ginger.

  2. 2

    Heat neutral oil in a large, wide pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the fish for 3–4 minutes per side without moving, until both sides are golden brown. Control heat to prevent burning.

  3. 3

    Remove any excess oil, then push fish to the side. Add sliced ginger, scallions, and crushed garlic to the pan; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Deglaze the pan by adding Shaoxing wine, then pour in light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and water. Sprinkle in sugar and white pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

  5. 5

    Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, basting the fish frequently with the sauce. Cover and braise for 15–20 minutes until fish is just cooked through and sauce slightly thickens.

  6. 6

    Uncover and simmer an additional 3–5 minutes if needed to thicken sauce further, spooning sauce over the fish. Garnish with extra scallions before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The whole red snapper or sea bream is the essential ingredient, defining the dish’s texture, flavor, and festive presence. The fish’s freshness and quality drive the savory-sweet balance that’s central to red braised fish.
Q. What is the most important cooking technique for success here?
Searing the fish at medium-high heat until golden on both sides is vital. This develops aroma and locks in moisture, while carefully controlling the braise at a gentle simmer ensures the fish cooks evenly without becoming tough.
Q. How do you prevent the fish from falling apart during cooking?
Patting the fish dry, searing without moving it, and using gentle heat throughout the braise help the fish hold together. Avoid over-turning or stirring; let the braising liquid do the work as you baste and simmer.
Q. How many calories and what’s the protein to carb ratio per serving?
Each serving contains 278 kcal, with 33g protein and 8g carbohydrates. Protein represents approximately 48% of total calories, while carbs comprise about 11%, making this a high-protein dish.
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