1. Fish Preparation
The initial preparation of fish is crucial as a lack of care can result in a loss of flavor. After scaling and cleaning, it’s important to remove the dark membrane inside the belly of the fish as this is the main source of any unpleasant fishy odor. Rinse the fish thoroughly and let it dry before proceeding to the next step.
2. Marination
Marinating the fish greatly enhances its flavor. Start by rubbing the fish with a layer of white alcohol to neutralize any fishy smell. Then, peel and cut ginger into chunks, and slice an onion. Stuff the belly of the fish with these ingredients and let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This technique ensures that the fish absorbs the flavors evenly, resulting in a more aromatic and tasty dish when steamed.
3. Using Hot Water
An essential step for delicious steamed fish is to use hot water. Contrary to popular practice, avoid using cold water in the pot. Boiling the water first and then placing the fish in the steamer ensures quicker cooking and locks in the fresh flavor of the fish.
