Are you craving a taste of the tropics? Close your eyes and imagine yourself on a picturesque Thai beach, savouring the delightful flavours of Thai cuisine. In this blog, we bring you a mouthwatering recipe that will transport you straight to that dreamy destination – Thai Chilli Basil Fish Fillets with Fragrant Basil Rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a vegetarian, this recipe has something for everyone. So, let’s dive into the culinary journey and recreate the tropical magic in your own kitchen!
Fish Filets: Opt for sturdy white fish, boneless and skinless. You can also use chicken, beef, tofu, or various veggies as alternatives.
Ingredients
- Fish Ingredients
- 4 fish filets
- 3 tbsp coconut oil (for cooking the fish)
- Marinade Ingredients
- 1 tbsp finely grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fish sauce or vegan fish sauce (optional)
- ¼ cup tamari (to taste)
- 1 tbsp chili flakes (to taste, optional)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 – 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- 4 drops lemon and/or lime essential oil (to taste)
- 2 drops basil essential oil (to taste)
- 1 drop black pepper essential oil (to taste)
- ½ tsp sea salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp organic corn flour/starch (optional to thicken the sauce)
- Serving Suggestions: For added freshness, consider Chinese greens, baby spinach, capsicum, zucchini, mushrooms, broccoli, basil leaves, coriander leaves, spring onions, fresh chilies, and lime or lemon wedges.
Instructions
- Now, let's dive into the step-by-step process of creating this Thai-inspired delicacy.
- 1. Clean and Marinate: Rinse the fish under cold water, pat dry, and place it in a shallow dish. Combine the marinade ingredients and pour them over the fish, ensuring it's evenly coated. Let the fish marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to an hour, turning it occasionally.
- 2. Prep the Ingredients: While the fish marinates, prepare the Chinese greens, capsicum, and other veggies if using. Chop the basil and coriander leaves, slice the fresh chilies and lime or lemon wedges, and set them aside in the fridge until ready to cook.
- 3. Cook the Fish: Heat coconut oil in a medium-large pan on medium heat. Place the marinated fish in the pan, reserving the marinade for later. Cook the fish until lightly golden on both sides (approximately 3-5 minutes per side).
- 4. Add Veggies and Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Mix corn starch with water, and stir it into the reserved marinade. Pour the marinade over the fish and add the Chinese greens, capsicum, and basil leaves around the fish. Gently simmer for 3-4 minutes, turning the fish once while cooking. Stir the sauce and veggies until the sauce thickens.
- 5. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the fish, veggies, and sauce on a platter or individual plates. Serve the dish with fragrant basil rice, and garnish with spring onions, chili flakes, fresh chili slices, and coriander leaves if desired. Place lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of tangy flavour.
Congratulations! You’ve just recreated the magic of a tropical Thai beach café in your own kitchen. The Thai Chilli Basil Fish Filets with Fragrant Basil Rice will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you prefer the succulent fish filets or a vegetarian twist with veggies and tofu, this dish is sure to become a favourite in your household. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the flavours of Thailand, and enjoy a culinary journey that’s both exotic and comforting. Happy cooking!
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