Sabahan-style Crispy Fried Fish

Ingredients

In the original Chinese version of this dish, the fish is typically marinated in soy sauce and ginger, and the batter is made with cornstarch. The Sabahan adaptation incorporates local spices like turmeric, lemongrass, and ginger, and replaces cornstarch with rice flour. Additionally, the use of belacan, a traditional Sabahan ingredient, adds a unique flavor profile to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Feng zhao, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets
• 2 tablespoons turmeric powder 2 tablespoons turmeric powder
• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon belacan (fermented shrimp paste) 1 tablespoon belacan (fermented shrimp paste)
• 1 cup rice flour 1 cup rice flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine turmeric powder, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and belacan to make a marinade.
2. 2.
   Rub the marinade all over the fish fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, mix rice flour with a pinch of salt.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat.
5. 5.
   Dip each marinated fish fillet into the rice flour mixture, ensuring it is well coated.
6. 6.
   Carefully place the coated fish fillets into the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
7. 7.
   Remove the fried fish from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
8. 8.
   Serve the Crispy Fried Fish with lime wedges and your favorite sambal on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Turmeric — Wear gloves while handling turmeric powder as it can stain your hands and clothes.
• Belacan — If you're not familiar with belacan, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy texture, you can double-coat the fish by dipping it in the rice flour mixture twice before frying.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add finely chopped red chili to the marinade.
• Serve the Crispy Fried Fish with a side of steamed rice and a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Sabahan-style Crispy Fried Fish as a main dish with steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro or spring onions for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Crispy Fried Fish fillets on a platter, garnish with lime wedges and fresh herbs. Serve with a small bowl of sambal on the side for dipping.