Description
This Tomato Poached Fish with Chili Oil recipe features tender fish fillets gently cooked in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and a spicy chili oil drizzle. Perfect for a healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner, this dish combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes with the subtle heat of chili oil for a vibrant, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Sauce
- 4 fresh fish fillets (about 1 lb or 450 g)
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Herbs and Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chili oil (plus extra for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and dry the fish fillets thoroughly. Dice the ripe tomatoes, mince the garlic cloves, and chop the fresh basil and parsley. Set all ingredients aside for easy access.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic to maintain its aroma.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the mixture on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Poach Fish: Nestle the fish fillets gently into the tomato sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and poach the fish for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Avoid stirring to keep fillets intact.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped basil and parsley evenly over the poached fish. Drizzle with chili oil to add a spicy, aromatic finish. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use firm white fish fillets like cod, halibut, or sea bass for best results.
- Adjust chili oil quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Serve with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful tomato sauce.
- For a milder sauce, remove some of the chili oil before serving.
- Fresh herbs add brightness; substitute with cilantro or oregano if desired.
