Ginger Onion Fried Sea Bass – A Flavorful and Crispy Delight

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Ginger Onion Fried Sea Bass – A Flavorful and Crispy Delight

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality seafood dish that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this Ginger Onion Fried Sea Bass is the perfect choice.

Crispy golden-brown sea bass fillets are lightly coated in cornstarch and pan-fried to perfection, then topped with a fragrant and savory ginger onion sauce. The sauce is infused with the aromatic flavors of ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, creating a delicious combination that perfectly complements the tender fish.

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables, making it a great weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Fried Sea Bass

  • 4 sea bass fillets (6-8 oz each) – Fresh sea bass works best for its mild, delicate flavor and flaky texture.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds depth and umami.
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine (optional) – Enhances the aroma and tenderizes the fish.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Provides a subtle nuttiness.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the sea bass.
  • ¼ teaspoon white pepper – Adds a mild heat that complements seafood.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Creates a light, crispy coating when fried.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Used for frying the fish to golden perfection.

For the Ginger Onion Stir-Fry

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Used to sauté the aromatics.
  • ¼ cup fresh ginger, julienned – Brings a warm, spicy kick.
  • 4 green onions, sliced into 2-inch pieces – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides an aromatic depth to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Adds a rich, savory umami taste.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Balances the flavors in the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar – Slightly sweetens and rounds out the sauce.
  • ¼ cup water – Helps create a smooth and silky sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Sea Bass

  1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice wine (if using), sesame oil, salt, and white pepper.
  2. Rub this mixture evenly over the sea bass fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
  3. Let the fillets marinate for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Coat and Fry the Sea Bass

  1. Pat the marinated fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  2. Lightly coat each fillet with cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fillets skin-side down and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with a paper towel.

Step 3: Make the Ginger Onion Stir-Fry

  1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat.
  2. Add the julienned ginger and minced garlic, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the green onions and stir-fry for an additional minute until slightly softened.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and water, mixing well.
  2. Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

  1. Return the fried sea bass fillets to the skillet, spooning the ginger onion sauce over each fillet.
  2. Let the fish simmer for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  3. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with additional sliced green onions, if desired.
  4. Serve immediately with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips for the Best Fried Sea Bass

  • For Extra Crispiness: Double-coat the fillets by dipping them first in cornstarch, then in a lightly beaten egg, and again in cornstarch before frying. This creates an even crunchier texture.
  • Use Fresh Fish: If fresh sea bass is unavailable, you can substitute with snapper, cod, or halibut for similar results.
  • Adjust the Seasoning: If you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce, increase the sugar by ½ teaspoon. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the fish in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a crispier crust.
  • Use a Non-Stick or Cast-Iron Skillet: This helps prevent the fish from sticking to the pan while frying.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Packed with Flavor – The combination of savory soy sauce, aromatic ginger, and fresh green onions makes this dish incredibly tasty.
  • Crispy Yet Tender – The light cornstarch coating gives the fish a delicate crunch while keeping the inside juicy and flaky.
  • Simple and Quick – With just 35 minutes of total prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Healthy Option – Since the fish is pan-fried instead of deep-fried, this recipe is lighter but still full of flavor.
  • Versatile – Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy This Delicious Ginger Onion Fried Sea Bass!

This Ginger Onion Fried Sea Bass is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves flavorful, crispy seafood. The golden-fried fish, paired with the savory and aromatic ginger onion sauce, creates a perfectly balanced dish that will impress your family and guests.

Try this recipe today and experience the incredible flavors of homemade Chinese-style fried fish. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Happy cooking!

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