Caramelized Black Pepper Fish

Indulge in the rich, savory-sweet flavors of Caramelized Black Pepper Fish, a dish that combines tender white fish fillets with a vibrant glaze of soy sauce, fish sauce, and caramelized brown sugar. The perfect balance of umami, sweetness, and a zesty hit of lime, this dish is elevated with freshly cracked black pepper for a spicy, aromatic twist. Sautéed to golden perfection before being simmered in a thick, glossy sauce, this recipe is an irresistible blend of textures and tastes. Finished with vibrant garnishes of scallions and cilantro, Caramelized Black Pepper Fish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a standout weeknight dinner or an impressive centerpiece for entertaining. With a quick 30 minutes from prep to table, this crowd-pleasing dish is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces White fish fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia, or snapper)
• 4 tablespoons Soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Fish sauce
• 3 tablespoons Brown sugar
• 2 pieces Garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Lime juice
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 2 stalks Scallions (sliced for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• 1 cup Water

Directions

Step 1

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with a pinch of salt (optional, as the sauces are salty).

Step 2

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.

Step 3

Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium heat.

Step 4

Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until aromatic.

Step 5

Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden and slightly crisp.

Step 6

Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. Transfer the fish to a plate and set aside.

Step 7

In the same skillet, add the prepared soy sauce mixture along with the water. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 8

Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to thicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 9

Stir in the freshly cracked black pepper and return the fish fillets to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the fish to coat it evenly.

Step 10

Allow the fish to simmer gently in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Step 11

Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the fish to a serving dish. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.

Step 12

Garnish with sliced scallions and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(866.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	781.0

Total Fat 30.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.9g
Cholesterol 200mg	0%
Sodium 5077.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 42.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.7g	0%
Total Sugars 29.0g
Protein 89.3g	0%

Vitamin D 800IU	0%
Calcium 213.5mg	0%
Iron 4.5mg	0%
Potassium 1764.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.3%

Protein: 44.5%

Carbs: 21.2%