Adobong Hito with a Twist

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) catfish fillets 500g (1.1 lb) catfish fillets
• 1/4 cup vinegar 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
• 2 red chili peppers, sliced 2 red chili peppers, sliced
• 1 cup coconut milk 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger slices, and black peppercorns. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Add the catfish fillets to the marinade and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use.
4. 4.
   Sear the catfish fillets in the hot oil until they develop a golden brown crust on both sides. Remove the catfish from the pan and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same pan, add the reserved marinade, coconut milk, bay leaves, and sliced chili peppers. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. 6.
   Return the seared catfish fillets to the pan and let them simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve the Adobong Hito with a Twist hot with steamed rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Catfish — Make sure to choose fresh catfish fillets with a mild aroma. If catfish is not available, you can substitute it with other firm white fish such as tilapia or cod.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add more chili peppers or include some chili flakes in the marinade.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the simmering sauce.
• Serve the Adobong Hito with a Twist with a side of steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the dish.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a quick and delicious meal.
• Adjust the level of saltiness by adding more or less soy sauce according to your taste preference.

Serving advice

Serve the Adobong Hito with a Twist hot with steamed rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for added freshness and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the seared catfish fillets on a serving platter and pour the flavorful sauce over them. Sprinkle some sliced chili peppers and fresh herbs on top for an attractive presentation.