This recipe transports you to the sun-drenched shores of Lebanon with its vibrant flavors and surprisingly simple preparation. Steamed fish, a culinary cornerstone of Lebanese cuisine, is elevated to new heights with the addition of toum, a creamy, garlicky Lebanese sauce that's both addictive and incredibly versatile. Forget heavy, greasy frying – this method preserves the delicate texture of the fish, allowing its natural sweetness to shine through while the aromatic steam infuses it with subtle herbs and spices. The result is a healthy, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Imagine flaky, succulent fish bathed in a luscious, garlicky sauce. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience. The combination of the tender fish and the intensely flavorful toum is a match made in culinary heaven. Ready to create this Lebanese masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Steamer basket
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Fish and Steamer
- Slice ginger and garlic. Prepare green onions, reserving some for garnish.
- Create a bed of sliced green onions in the steamer basket. Add sliced garlic and ginger.
- Place the cod fillets on top of the green onion bed in the steamer basket.
Step 2. Steam the Fish
- Steam the fish until cooked through (about 15 minutes).
Step 3. Make the Zesty Tahini Sauce (Toum)
- In a bowl, vigorously stir tahini until smooth.
- Add lemon juice, mixing thoroughly. Gradually add water to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Pound garlic and add it to the sauce. Add salt to taste.
- Mix until you achieve a smooth paste.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Once the fish is cooked, spoon the toum sauce generously over the fish. Garnish with remaining green onions and cilantro (optional).
Read more: Fluffy Chicken Steamed Buns: Perfect Baozi Recipe
Tips
- Stir tahini well to prevent clumping.
- Add water gradually to control the sauce consistency. Add more tahini if needed.
- Adding salt directly to the garlic helps break it down.
- Use iodized salt for easier mixing and potential thyroid health benefits.
- When adding salt, start with less than you think you need and add more gradually.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Yes! Firm, white-fleshed fish like cod, snapper, or sea bass work best. Avoid overly delicate fish that might fall apart during steaming.
2. How can I make the tahini sauce less thick?
Add a tablespoon or two of water or lemon juice to the tahini sauce, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You can also whisk in some extra olive oil for a smoother texture.
This Steamed Fish with Zesty Tahini Sauce offers a healthy and flavorful journey to the heart of Lebanese cuisine. The simple yet elegant preparation allows the fresh ingredients to shine, creating a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to recreate. Enjoy this delicious and authentic taste of Lebanon!