How to Make Steamed Milkfish: A Delicious and Healthy Filipino Recipe

Steamed milkfish, or “Bangus na Isda” as we call it in the Philippines, is a dish that holds a special place in my heart. It represents the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, a testament to how the freshest ingredients, when treated with respect, can create a culinary masterpiece. The tender, flaky fish infused with the aromatic ginger and spring onion, is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy.

Whether you’re familiar with Filipino cuisine or exploring it for the first time, this steamed milkfish recipe is an excellent place to start. It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, most of which you might already have in your kitchen. So, are you ready to embark on this flavorful journey with me? Let’s steam our way to a delicious and healthy meal!

Ingredients for Steamed Milkfish:

• 1 whole milkfish (about 1-1.5 pounds), cleaned and scaled
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, cut into thin slices
• 3-4 stalks of spring onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• 1-2 red chilies, sliced (for added heat)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Equipment:

• Steamer (bamboo steamer or metal steamer)
• Large plate or heat-proof dish

Steamed Milkfish

Step-by-Step Guide to Steaming Milkfish:

1. Prepare the Milkfish: Rinse the cleaned milkfish under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. Season the cavity of the fish generously with salt and pepper.

2. Prepare the Steamer: Fill the steamer pot with enough water to come up about an inch below the steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

3. Assemble the Dish: Place the milkfish on a heat-proof plate or dish that fits inside your steamer basket. Stuff the cavity of the fish with ginger slices and spring onions. Pour the soy sauce and water over the fish.

4. Steam the Milkfish: Carefully place the plate with the fish into the steamer basket. Cover the steamer and reduce the heat to medium. Steam for 20-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Pro Tip from Chef Maria: “To check if the fish is cooked, insert a fork into the thickest part. It should come out easily, and the flesh should be opaque.”

5. Final Touches: While the fish is steaming, heat the cooking oil in a small pan. Once hot, carefully pour the hot oil over the steamed fish. This will give it a beautiful sheen and enhance its aroma.

Pouring Hot Oil Over Fish

Serving and Enjoying Your Steamed Milkfish:

Garnish your steamed milkfish with fresh spring onions and serve it hot with steamed rice. For an extra burst of flavor, try pairing it with a side of spicy vinegar dipping sauce, like the traditional Filipino “Sawsawan.” You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing touch.

Serving Suggestion: “Steamed milkfish pairs wonderfully with a side of stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or green beans. For a heartier meal, serve it with a side of rice noodles.” – Chef Miguel

Tips for the Best Steamed Milkfish:

• Freshness is Key: Use the freshest milkfish you can find for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Steaming time may vary depending on the size of your fish. It’s better to slightly undercook than overcook, as the fish will continue to cook a bit even after it’s removed from the steamer.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different aromatics like garlic, lemongrass, or chili peppers.
• Make it Your Own: Adjust the amount of soy sauce and water to your liking for a milder or saltier flavor.

FAQs:

Can I use a different kind of fish?

Absolutely! While milkfish is traditional, you can use other white-fleshed fish like sea bass, snapper, or tilapia. Adjust the steaming time accordingly.

Can I bake the fish instead of steaming?

Yes, you can bake the fish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

How do I store leftover steamed milkfish?

Let the fish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Steamed Milkfish Table Setting

There you have it – a simple, healthy, and utterly delicious steamed milkfish recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! And for more delicious steamed recipes from different cultures, be sure to check out our other posts on [link to a relevant article on your website]. Happy cooking!