Frozen halibut with dried red dates and Shaoxing wine

Frozen halibut with dried red dates and Shaoxing wine

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Here’s how to adapt the recipe Frozen halibut with dried red dates and Shaoxing wine:

Ingredients:

  • Frozen halibut fillets (thawed and patted dry)
  • Dried red dates (pitted and halved)
  • Shaoxing wine
  • Light soy sauce
  • Sugar
  • Ginger (julienned)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Scallions (chopped, for garnish)
  • Vegetable oil
  • Water (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the fish: Thaw the frozen halibut completely in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, pat the fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help ensure the fish sears nicely.

  2. Marinate (optional): You can marinate the fish for 15-20 minutes in a mixture of Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar. This adds extra flavor, but it’s not essential.

  3. Heat oil: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom.

  4. Sear the fish: Season the halibut fillets with salt and pepper. Carefully place them in the hot oil and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, cook the fish in batches if needed.

  5. Flavor the sauce: Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Add the ginger and garlic to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  6. Deglaze the pan: Pour in the Shaoxing wine (scraping up any browned bits from the bottom) and let it simmer for a minute to burn off the alcohol.

  7. Add remaining ingredients: Add the light soy sauce, sugar, and dried red dates. The red dates will soften and release their natural sweetness as they simmer. You can add a splash of water here if you want a bit more sauce.

  8. Simmer and thicken: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings with additional soy sauce or sugar if needed.

  9. Serve: Plate the cooked halibut fillets and spoon the flavorful sauce with softened red dates over the fish. Garnish with chopped scallions for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips:

  • You can use other substitutes for sesame oil, like peanut oil, canola oil, or avocado oil.
  • If your dried red dates are very dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using them.
  • Adjust the amount of Shaoxing wine depending on your preference for a stronger or milder flavor.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Enjoy your favorite fish recipe with this flavorful twist!

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