A perfectly cooked steamed BBQ carp fillet garnished on a plate

Delicious Steamed BBQ Carp Fillet

Delicious Steamed BBQ Carp Fillet
easystar
15 mintime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories350kcal

Carbs8gram

Fat15gram

Protein35gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • fresh carp fillet, skin on (choose firm, fresh fish with no fishy smell)500 g
  • soy sauce (preferably light soy sauce for balanced saltiness)2 tbsp
  • hoisin sauce (adds sweetness and depth)1 tbsp
  • grated fresh ginger (freshly grated gives best aroma)1 tbsp
  • minced garlic (fresh, not powdered)1 tsp
  • honey or brown sugar (adds sweetness to balance flavors)1 tbsp
  • chopped spring onions (for garnish)2 tbsp
  • sesame oil (for aroma)1 tsp
  • fresh lemon juice (optional, for bright flavor)1 tbsp

This recipe shows you how to perfectly steam a flavorful BBQ carp fillet, resulting in a tender and juicy dish with smoky BBQ flavor. Steaming keeps the fish moist and healthy, while the BBQ marinade adds delicious depth. This dish costs approximately $10 USD / 9 EUR / 8 GBP / 800 INR for ingredients and provides about 350 kcal per serving. It's an easy recipe, taking about 40 minutes total, ideal for an everyday healthy meal.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the marinade

1In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp hoisin sauce, 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 1 tsp minced garlic, and 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar until combined. This mixture will create a sweet and savory BBQ marinade.

Marinate the carp fillets

2Place the 500g carp fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, coating them evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This step infuses the fish with flavor.

Prepare your steaming setup

3Fill a steamer pot or large pan with about 5 cm of water. Bring the water to a boil. Make sure your steaming rack or basket fits inside without touching the water.

Steam the marinated carp fillets

4Arrange the marinated carp fillets on a heatproof plate or dish suitable for steaming. Place the plate on the steaming rack and cover the pot. Steam for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Use a food thermometer for accuracy.

Finish with sesame oil and garnish

5Carefully remove the steamed fish from the steamer. Drizzle 1 tsp sesame oil and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice on top for aroma and brightness. Sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped spring onions over the fillets for fresh flavor and color.

Cooking Tips

-Use a clean food thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fish to check the safe internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) to ensure the fish is fully cooked and safe to eat.

-Always wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw fish to prevent cross-contamination.

-If you don't have a steamer, you can use a heatproof plate placed on a rack inside a large pot with a lid.

-Feel free to substitute hoisin sauce with oyster sauce or a mix of soy sauce and brown sugar for variation.

-Avoid overcooking the fish as it will become dry; monitor steam time closely.

Equipment Needed

  • Steamer pot or large pot with steaming rack
  • Heatproof plate or dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Food thermometer
  • Knife and chopping board

Shopping List

  • [ ] Fresh carp fillet, 500g (~$7): Choose fresh, firm fillets with no fishy odor. Freshness is key to tasty fish.
  • [ ] Soy sauce, bottle (~$2): Use light soy sauce for authentic flavor.
  • [ ] Hoisin sauce, bottle (~$3): Adds sweet and smoky BBQ notes.
  • [ ] Fresh ginger, small piece (~$1): Select firm and smooth skin ginger.
  • [ ] Fresh garlic, head (~$0.50): Use fresh cloves for best aroma.
  • [ ] Honey or brown sugar (~$1): Natural sweeteners to balance marinade.
  • [ ] Spring onions, bunch (~$1): Fresh and green for garnish.
  • [ ] Sesame oil, small bottle (~$3): Adds nutty aroma at the end.
  • [ ] Lemon, 1 piece (~$0.50): Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish.

Total approximate cost: $19

FAQ

How do I know when steamed fish is fully cooked?

Fish is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Using a food thermometer is the most reliable method.

Can I use another type of fish?

Yes! You can substitute carp with other firm white fish fillets like tilapia, cod or sea bass, adjusting the steaming time as needed.

Do I have to marinate the fish?

Marinating enhances flavor but is optional. You can steam plain fish and then drizzle with sauce after cooking for a lighter taste.

How do I avoid fish sticking to the plate during steaming?

Lightly grease the steaming plate with a bit of oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.