Chinese Steamed Sea Bass with Black Beans

Chinese Steamed Sea Bass with Black Beans is a traditional dish that features tender sea bass steamed to perfection with savory black beans. This dish is very popular in Chinese cuisine and is often served during special occasions and family gatherings.

Ingredients | Chinese Steamed Sea Bass with Black Beans

Serves 4

1 kg Sea bass, cleaned with head and tail left
1-2 tbsp rice wine or dry sherry
1/ ½ tbsp groundnut oil
2-3 tbsp fermented Black Beans, rinsed and drained
1 garlic clove, peeled and finely chopped
1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
4 spring onions, thinly sliced diagonally
2-3 tbsp soy Sauce
125 ml fish or chicken stock
1-2 tbsp sweet Chinese chili sauce, or to taste
2 tbsp sesame oil
Spring of fresh coriander, to garnish

Preparation Method

Make 3 or 4 diagonal slashes along both sides of the fish through a sharp knife. Sprinkle the Chinese rice wine or sherry inside and over the fish and gently rub it into the skin on both sides.
Lightly brush a heatproof plate large enough to fit into a large wok or frying pan with a bit of groundnut oil. Place the fish on the plate, curving the fish along the inside edge of the dish, then leave for 20 minutes.

Place a wire rack or inverted dish in the wok and fill enough water to come about 2.5 cm / 1 inch up the side. Bring to a boil over high heat.

Place the plate carefully with the fish on the rack or dish, cover, and steam for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is tender and the flesh is opaque when pierced with a knife near the bone.

Remove the plate with the fish from the wok warm. Remove the rack or dish from the wok and remove some water from the top. Bring the wok back to the heat, add the remaining groundnut oil, and swirl to coat the bottom and side. Add the black beans, garlic, ginger, and stir-fry for 1 minute.

Add the spring onions, soy sauce, fish, or chicken stock and boil for 1 minute.

Stir in the sesame oil and chili sauce, then pour the sauce over the cooked fish.

Garnish Chinese Steamed Sea Bass with Black Beans dish with coriander spring and serve immediately.