The weather loach, often referred to as the “ginseng of the water,” is an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients. According to Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Lam, former Vice President of the National Institute of Nutrition, 100g of weather loach contains 16.9g of protein, 2g of fat, 3.2g of carbohydrates, 16.9mg of calcium, 3.2mg of iron, 27mg of phosphorus, and various other vitamins.
These nutrients contribute to the numerous health benefits associated with weather loach, particularly its positive impact on liver and kidney function. In modern medicine, weather loach is also valued for its nutritional properties, immune-boosting capabilities, and its ability to promote blood circulation and aid digestion.
Weather Loach
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, weather loach is considered a precious medicinal herb with sweet and neutral properties. It is believed to tonify the yang, treat hepatitis, jaundice, boils, and ulcers. Consuming weather loach is also thought to benefit individuals with chronic liver and kidney diseases. According to nutrition and traditional medicine experts, weather loach is a valuable food for improving overall health, especially for the elderly and malnourished children.
Weather loach can be prepared in a variety of nutritious and delicious dishes. Proper preparation of weather loach involves taking care to eliminate its distinctive muddy odor, often utilizing vinegar, salt, wood ash, or sour alum in the cleaning process. The culinary applications of this fish are diverse, and it is commonly featured in Vietnamese meals, providing a well-rounded nutritional profile for families.
Tips for Selecting Fresh and Meaty Weather Loach
To ensure the freshest and best-quality weather loach, it is recommended to purchase them from specialized seafood markets or shops offering live seafood.
When choosing weather loach, select lively fish that are actively wriggling and have a larger body size. Look for clear eyes, shiny skin, and bright red gills.
Avoid choosing dead or immobile fish, as this may impact the flavor and quality of your dish. Also, steer clear of very small or thin fish, as they tend to have less meat and more bones.
Here is a recipe for braised weather loach for your reference.
Braised Weather Loach
Braised Weather Loach with Ginger and Scallions
Ingredients: Weather loach, soy sauce, cooking oil, scallions, ginger, dried chili peppers, cooking wine, basic seasonings.
- Upon purchasing the weather loach, place them in a container of clean water with a small amount of cooking oil added. Keep them in this water for a day and a night. Maintain clean water to allow the fish to expel any dirt from their bodies.
- Once the fish have purged the mud from their systems, transfer them to a covered container and add 1-2 spoons of salt. After about four or five minutes, the fish will stop moving. Rinse and clean the fish, then set them aside to drain.
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté the scallions, ginger slices, and dried chili peppers until fragrant.
- Add soy sauce and simmer on low heat until the sauce becomes aromatic. Introduce the weather loach to the pan, then add hot water until the fish are just covered. Season to taste, then add a touch of sugar and cooking wine. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Once the sauce has reduced and thickened, turn off the heat and plate the dish. Garnish with additional scallions or herbs. Enjoy the flavorful braised weather loach with its savory sauce alongside a bowl of steamed rice.
The tender fish meat absorbs the savory-sweet flavors of the sauce, and the aroma of ginger and scallions makes this dish irresistibly appetizing and perfect for mealtime.
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