Vietnamese Fish Simmered in Caramel Sauce Ca Kho to

Indulge in the savory-sweet harmony of Vietnamese Fish Simmered in Caramel Sauce (Cá Kho Tộ), a timeless classic that showcases the bold flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. This comforting dish features tender catfish fillets simmered to perfection in a luscious caramel sauce made from melted sugar, fish sauce, and aromatic garlic and shallots. Balanced with a hint of spice from fresh red chili and a touch of black pepper, it’s a perfect blend of sweetness, saltiness, and umami. Traditionally cooked in a clay pot for deep, concentrated flavors, this recipe is easily adaptable to any heavy-bottomed pan. Served over steamed white rice, the rich, glossy sauce creates a masterful pairing that will transport your taste buds straight to Vietnam. Whether you're seeking authentic Vietnamese comfort food or looking to expand your culinary repertoire, Cá Kho Tộ is a must-try dish that’s as simple as it is irresistible.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams catfish fillets (or any firm white fish)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons fish sauce
• 150 ml water
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium shallots, thinly sliced
• 1 medium red chili, finely sliced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or neutral oil)
• 2 stalks spring onions, chopped
• 4 servings white rice (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Set aside.

Step 2

In a medium-sized clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan, heat 3 tablespoons of sugar over medium heat. Stir frequently until the sugar melts and turns into a golden caramel color. Be careful not to let it burn.

Step 3

Slowly and carefully add 150 ml of water to the caramel. Stir to combine. The caramel may harden slightly but will melt again as it cooks.

Step 4

Add the fish sauce, garlic, shallots, sliced chili (if using), and black pepper to the caramel sauce. Stir the mixture well.

Step 5

Gently place the fish fillets into the pot, making sure the sauce covers the fish. If needed, add a bit more water to ensure the fish is partially submerged.

Step 6

Turn the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Simmer for about 20 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the fish to ensure even flavoring.

Step 7

After 20 minutes, remove the lid and let the sauce reduce for an additional 10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and coats the fish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8

Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped spring onions.

Step 9

Serve the fish hot with steamed white rice, spooning the rich caramel sauce over the top.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1484.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1803.6

Total Fat 44.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 300mg	0%
Sodium 4038.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 233.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 5.2g	0%
Total Sugars 44.0g
Protein 114.7g	0%

Vitamin D 1000IU	0%
Calcium 205.5mg	0%
Iron 11.3mg	0%
Potassium 2238.2mg	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: 22.3%

Protein: 25.6%

Carbs: 52.1%