Chinese Braised Belt Fish

🐟 Chinese Braised Belt Fish 

Hong Shao Dai Yu  is a classic home-style Chinese dish. The fish is first lightly fried until golden, then braised in a savory-sweet soy sauce with ginger, garlic, and aromatics. The result is tender, flavorful fish coated in a rich, glossy sauce.

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🛒 Ingredients

• Belt fish (cut into 6–8 cm sections): 600 g

• Ginger: 6 slices

• Garlic: 4 cloves, smashed

• Green onions: 3 stalks, cut into sections

• Dried chili peppers: 2–3 (optional)

• Cooking oil: 4–5 tbsp

Seasonings

• Light soy sauce: 3 tbsp

• Dark soy sauce: 1 tbsp

• Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine): 3 tbsp

• Vinegar: 1 tbsp

• Sugar: 1 tbsp (rock sugar preferred)

• Salt: to taste

• Water: about 300 ml

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Fish

1. Clean the belt fish thoroughly and cut into even sections (about 6–8 cm long).

2. Pat the fish dry with paper towels.

3. Optionally, lightly dust with flour or cornstarch—this prevents sticking and helps form a golden crust.

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Step 2. Pan-Fry the Fish

1. Heat 4–5 tbsp oil in a wok or deep pan until hot.

2. Add the fish pieces, skin side down first.

3. Fry over medium heat until both sides are golden brown.

4. Remove the fish and set aside.

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Step 3. Sauté Aromatics

1. Leave about 2 tbsp oil in the wok.

2. Add ginger slices, garlic, dried chili peppers, and green onion sections.

3. Stir-fry until fragrant.

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Step 4. Make the Braising Sauce

1. Add light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and vinegar.

2. Stir well.

3. Pour in about 300 ml water (enough to almost cover the fish).

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Step 5. Braise the Fish

1. Gently slide the fried belt fish back into the wok.

2. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

3. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak into the fish.

4. Carefully turn the fish once during cooking.

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Step 6. Reduce and Serve

1. Remove the lid and turn up the heat.

2. Reduce the sauce until slightly thick and glossy.

3. Adjust seasoning with salt or sugar if needed.

4. Carefully transfer the fish to a serving plate.

5. Spoon the sauce over the top.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with steamed rice for a balanced meal.

• Garnish with fresh green onions or cilantro for color and aroma.

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🌟 Tips

• Handle the fish gently to prevent breaking during braising.

• A bit of vinegar enhances flavor and reduces any fishy smell.

• For extra flavor, you can add a few slices of fresh chili or a small piece of star anise while braising.