Steamed Rock Cod

Steamed rock cod with green onions and ginger is my favorite dish whenever I attend any Chinese banquets.  It is normally served as part of a multiple course meal during special occasions like weddings and birthdays. It is also a popular dish to serve during Chinese New Year for it symbolizes good luck and prosperity. With the proper steaming equipment, making steamed whole fish at home is quite easy. I used rock cod in this recipe but essentially any whole fish like red snapper and striped sea bass can be steamed. When I saw the rock cod at my local supermarket, it was already cleaned and the head was cut off. I immediately bought it because the fish without the head (on a glass dish) just fit perfectly in my bamboo steamer. After steaming the fish for 20 minutes, it came out just perfect: tasty, tender and succulent. It tasted even better drizzled with the boiled sauce and looked so pretty with the garnished of julienned green onions and ginger. My husband even said it looked like the one from the Chinese banquet 🙂  Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfectly Steamed Fish

To achieve perfectly steamed rock cod, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind. First, ensure that your bamboo steamer fits snugly over your pot or wok without touching the water. This prevents the fish from getting waterlogged. If you don’t have a bamboo steamer, a metal steaming rack or even a microwave-safe plate placed inside a pot with a lid works in a pinch. It’s important not to overcrowd the steamer. If you’re steaming multiple fish or other ingredients, give them enough space so that steam can circulate evenly. Additionally, a good sprinkle of salt on the fish before steaming enhances the flavor. If you prefer a deeper taste, marinating the fish for about 30 minutes with a mix of soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil can elevate your dish. Lastly, keep an eye on the clock. Overcooking can lead to dry fish, so 20 minutes is usually the sweet spot for a medium-sized rock cod.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Steamed rock cod is versatile and pairs well with various sides and sauces. For a traditional experience, serve it with jasmine rice, which complements the delicate flavors of the fish. A side of stir-fried bok choy or sautéed snow peas adds a nice crunch and freshness to your meal. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider serving the fish with a spicy chili oil on the side. This can bring a nice contrast to the mildness of the rock cod. For a more robust meal, you can create a simple noodle dish by tossing cooked rice noodles with some soy sauce, garlic, and vegetables. Garnishing the fish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a lovely finishing touch. Don’t forget to offer some steamed dumplings or spring rolls as appetizers. They can really set the tone for a delightful meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can use other whole fish like sea bass or red snapper. Just make sure they are cleaned and gutted, and the cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fish.

What should I serve with steamed rock cod?

Steamed rock cod pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and some stir-fried vegetables. You could also serve it with a light soy dipping sauce or a side of pickled vegetables for extra flavor.

How do I store leftover steamed fish?

If you have any leftovers, let the fish cool down and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for about 2-3 days, but the texture might change a bit after reheating.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the fish with the green onions and ginger earlier in the day and keep it in the fridge. Just make sure to steam it fresh right before serving for the best taste and texture.

What are common mistakes to avoid when steaming fish?

A common mistake is overcrowding the steamer, which can lead to uneven cooking. Also, ensure your steamer isn’t touching the water, as this can make the fish waterlogged instead of tender.

Steamed Rock Cod

Liza Agbanlog

Steamed rock cod is a light and flaky delight, infused with ginger and green onions. The mirin and soy sauce add a savory touch that elevates every bite.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Servings 2 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 whole rock cod or sea bass or red snapper cleaned and gutted
• 3 stalks green onions julienned
• 1 thumb size ginger peeled and julienned
• Kosher salt

Sauce:

• 5 tbsp mirin
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

 

• Rinse the fish and pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt on both sides of fish.
• Place the fish on a heatproof plate that would fit in your steamer. Make couple of diagonal cuts along the length of the fish. Top the fish with green onions and ginger.
• Put the plate in the steamer and steam the fish for 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Gently transfer the cooked fish (minus the accumulated water) on a serving platter.
• In a sauce pan, combine ingredients for the sauce. Let it boil and then pour over the fish. Serve with a garnish of julienned green onions and ginger.
• Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 40gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g

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