Name: Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 whole fish (1-1.5 pounds, such as snapper or tilapia); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1-2 fresh Thai bird’s eye chilies (optional, for heat); 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised (optional); 4-6 kaffir lime leaves (optional); Salt to taste; Lime slices, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is bursting with fresh and tangy flavors, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. It’s light, healthy, and packed with essential nutrients. The steaming process keeps the fish moist, while the lime and garlic sauce adds a flavorful punch. Additionally, it’s a quick and straightforward recipe that can be made in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a dinner party. Plus, the vibrant Thai-inspired flavors are sure to please anyone who loves seafood or enjoys experimenting with international cuisine.

Ingredients

1 whole fish (about 1-1.5 pounds, such as snapper or tilapia)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1-2 fresh Thai bird’s eye chilies (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
1 stalk lemongrass, bruised (optional)
4-6 kaffir lime leaves (optional)
Salt to taste
Lime slices, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Begin by cleaning the fish. Scale it, gut it, and rinse it thoroughly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
Place the fish on a heatproof plate that fits into your steamer. You can use a bamboo steamer or any other steaming device you have.
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chopped chilies. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
Pour this sauce mixture over the fish, making sure it’s evenly coated. You can also stuff some of the mixture inside the fish cavity for extra flavor.
If using, place the lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves on the plate around the fish.
Fill a pot or wok with water, and bring it to a simmer. Place the steamer with the fish into the pot. Cover and steam the fish for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Once the fish is done, carefully remove it from the steamer. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime slices before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people depending on portion size.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Herbs and Spices: You can experiment with adding fresh herbs like basil or mint for a different flavor profile. You could also use additional spices like ginger or lemongrass paste for more depth.
Fish Choice: While snapper or tilapia works best, you can use any firm white fish, such as sea bass or cod.
For Extra Heat: Add more bird’s eye chilies to the sauce, or drizzle some chili oil on top of the fish just before serving.
Vegetable Side: You can add vegetables like sliced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the steaming tray for added nutrition and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, steam the fish again for about 5 minutes or microwave it in short intervals, covered, until heated through. Be careful not to overcook it during reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the fish is cooked through?

The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure the fish is completely thawed before steaming.

What other types of fish can I use for this recipe?

Firm white fish like cod, sea bass, or halibut work well in this recipe.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic-lime sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free fish sauce. Some brands may contain wheat, so always check the label.

Can I use a regular steamer instead of a bamboo one?

Absolutely! Any steamer that fits in your pot will work just fine.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

Add more fresh bird’s eye chilies or a dash of chili paste to the sauce for more heat.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime?

While fresh lime juice is preferred for the best flavor, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

Is it possible to steam the fish without a steamer?

Yes, you can use a makeshift steamer by placing a heatproof plate on a trivet in a large pot with water, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the fish. Cover tightly and steam.

Conclusion

Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is a flavorful and refreshing dish that combines the aromatic tastes of lime, garlic, and fish into one satisfying meal. It’s healthy, quick, and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its versatility, you can experiment with different fish and herbs to suit your taste. The simplicity of the recipe, along with the depth of flavor, will make this a favorite in your cooking repertoire.