Steamed Fish With Dau See (Black Beans)
Steamed fish with savory black beans and aromatic ginger offers a delicate flavor, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a healthy, flavorful dish with bold umami notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange the fish in a bowl.
- Mix the shoyu, washed and mashed dau see, chopped green onion, chopped ginger, salt, cooking oil, liquor, and sugar together; sprinkle over the fish.
- Steam the fish for 15 to 20 minutes or more, depending on size of fish.
- When fish is cooked, drain the liquid and thicken with cornstarch.
- If necessary, add a small amount of water.
- Transfer fish to a platter; pour gravy over and garnish with Chinese parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the fish in the sauce for 30 minutes before steaming. If you can't find dau see, use fermented black beans as a substitute. Ensure the fish is cleaned and scaled properly for best results. Adjust the amount of ginger and green onion to suit your taste, and consider adding a few slices of chili for spice.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried snow peas for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a light soup or a fresh salad to complement the flavors. Garnish with Chinese parsley for added freshness and color. For a complete dinner, serve with a side of Hu Nang Shrimp to enhance the seafood theme.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover steamed fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently steam the fish again until warmed through, or use a microwave on low power in short intervals to avoid overcooking. Serve with freshly made gravy for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steamed Fish With Dau See (Black Beans) contains roughly 100 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1240mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents water from diluting the flavor. Pat the fish dry before marinating to help the sauce adhere better.
What can I serve with steamed fish?
Steamed fish goes well with steamed rice and a variety of vegetables. You could also serve it with a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with Chinese Noodles Casserole, which complements the lightness of the fish beautifully.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. A general guideline is to steam the fish for 15 to 20 minutes, but cooking time may vary depending on the size of the fish. Using a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safety.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).