Traditional Vietnamese Cá Bớp Kho Tộ Recipe

Ingredients

2-3 lbs of pomfret
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1/2 cup of sugar
1/2 cup of fish sauce
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 small ginger, sliced thinly
1 red chili, chopped
2 green onions, chopped
1 small bunch of cilantro, chopped
2 cups of coconut juice

Steps and instructions

Clean the pomfret thoroughly and pat dry using paper towels.
Heat up a pan, add the vegetable oil and sugar. Stir well until the sugar melts and turns caramel brown.
Add the minced garlic, sliced ginger, and chopped chili. Stir fry until fragrant.
Add the pomfret to the pan and sear both sides evenly.
Pour in the fish sauce, stir well.
Add coconut juice and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Turn the fish over, cover the pan again, and continue to cook for another 15 minutes.
Add the chopped green onions and cilantro. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat, serve the fish with steamed rice. Enjoy your Cá Bớp Kho Tộ.

Tools for making

Pan - A large, deep pan for cooking the fish and sauce.
Paper towels - To pat dry the pomfret before cooking.
Spatula - For flipping and stirring the fish during cooking.
Knife - To mince the garlic, slice the ginger, and chop the chili, green onions, and cilantro.
Cutting board - To safely cut and chop ingredients.
Measuring cup - To accurately measure the sugar, fish sauce, and coconut juice.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of fish such as snapper or sea bass instead of pomfret.
Experiment with different spices and herbs like lemongrass, turmeric, or basil for added flavor.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to make it a more colorful and nutritious dish.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili or add some hot sauce.
Try marinating the fish in a mixture of soy sauce, lime juice, and garlic before cooking.
Substitute coconut juice with coconut milk for a creamier texture.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the fish with tofu or tempeh and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Instead of pan-frying the fish, grill or bake it for a different taste and texture.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a lighter meal.
Add a squeeze of lime juice or sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving for a burst of freshness.

Recipe overview

Cá Bớp Kho Tộ, or braised pomfret, is a delightful Vietnamese dish that's packed with flavor and nutrition. This recipe calls for pomfret, a popular coastal fish, which is seared and then braised in a savory and slightly sweet sauce made with fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili. The fish is further enhanced with the addition of coconut juice, green onions, and cilantro. Expect to be immersed in a symphony of flavor as the fish absorbs the rich sauce and the herbs provide a refreshing contrast. This dish is typically served with steamed rice, making it a satisfying meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It might seem elaborate, but it's actually quite simple to prepare. Get ready to explore the amazing world of Vietnamese cuisine with this wonderful Cá Bớp Kho Tộ! Enjoy this delicious journey.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of fish instead of pomfret?
Yes, you can use other white fish varieties like cod or snapper as a substitute for pomfret in this recipe.
Is it necessary to use coconut juice?
Yes, coconut juice adds a unique flavor to the dish. If you cannot find coconut juice, you can use coconut water as a substitute.
Can I adjust the amount of sugar and fish sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar and fish sauce according to your taste preferences. Start with the recommended amounts and add more if desired.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, if you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more chopped chili or even include some chili flakes to increase the heat.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.
Can I garnish the dish with additional herbs?
Yes, you can garnish the dish with additional herbs like Thai basil or mint for added freshness and flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Pan - A large, sturdy pan for searing and simmering the fish.
Tongs - To flip the fish without damaging it while searing.
Spatula - Useful for stirring and flipping the fish gently.
Knife - For mincing garlic, slicing ginger, and chopping chili, green onions, and cilantro.
Cutting Board - To safely chop and prepare the ingredients.
Paper Towels - For patting the fish dry before cooking.
Measuring Cups - To accurately measure the sugar, fish sauce, and coconut juice.

Origin stories

Cá Bớp Kho Tộ, which literally translates to "stewed pomfret in clay pot", is a traditional Vietnamese dish hailing from the coastal regions of the country. The use of pomfret, a fish commonly found in the waters of Southeast Asia, and clay pot cooking method, are reflective of Vietnam's rich fishing heritage and culinary traditions. What sets this dish apart is the intricate balance of flavors, achieved through the use of fish sauce - a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and caramel, a French influence from the colonial times. The fish is slow-cooked in a clay pot, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the aromatic herbs and spices while maintaining its texture. The end result is a dish of tender, flavorful fish in a lightly sweet and savory sauce, often served with steamed rice. This dish not only showcases the simplicity and ingenuity of Vietnamese cooking, but also tells a story of a culture's history and its symbiotic relationship with its surroundings.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.