Simple & Delicious: 4 Ingredient Steamed White Fish
A dish that’s light, nourishing, and packed with clean, aromatic flavors. In just 20 minutes and with only a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like it came from a high-end Cantonese restaurant. In this case we’re using cod, but you really can use any white fish for success.
Why Steamed Cod?
Steaming is a classic Chinese cooking technique that keeps the fish moist and tender without overpowering its natural sweetness. Cod, with its flaky white flesh and mild flavor, absorbs the surrounding aromatics beautifully. This dish is also healthier than fried or sautéed options, making it ideal for those following a clean diet without sacrificing taste.
The Four Ingredients
- Cod Fillets – Choose fresh, firm white cod for the best texture. Frozen cod works well too—just be sure to thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry.
- Fresh Ginger – Cut into matchstick-thin slices, ginger adds warmth, depth, and a touch of heat that complements the sweetness of the cod.
- Scallions (Green Onions) – These bring a fresh, oniony brightness that lifts the entire dish. Use both the white and green parts for contrast in flavor and appearance.
- Soy Sauce – Just a splash ties everything together with savory umami and a hint of saltiness.
How to Make It
- Prep the Cod
Pat two cod fillets dry and place them on a heatproof plate. Lightly salt if desired (optional). - Layer the Aromatics
Scatter julienned ginger and half of the sliced scallions over the fish. - Steam
Place the plate in a steamer (or a setup using a metal rack over a pot of boiling water). Cover and steam for 8–10 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork. - Finish and Serve
Remove the fish from the steamer. Drizzle with soy sauce and top with the remaining fresh scallions. For extra aroma, you can quickly heat a tablespoon of oil and pour it over the scallions just before serving (optional but worth it!).
The Beauty of Simplicity
This dish is more than just easy—it’s elegant. It highlights the Chinese cooking philosophy that great flavor doesn’t have to come from complexity. The natural sweetness of the cod, the zing of ginger, and the freshness of scallions are all it needs.
Serve this with hot jasmine rice and perhaps a side of lightly sautéed bok choy or spinach for a perfectly balanced meal.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for a fast, clean meal, this 4-ingredient Chinese steamed cod is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
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