Hongshao wanyu (red cooked carp)

4 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
½ounceDried Tangerine Peel, or: citrus peel
3poundsFirm, white-fleshed Fish such as Rock Fish, Cod, Halibut, Haddock, Scrod, Red Snapper, or Sole, (cleaned & left whole)
2teaspoonsSalt
4tablespoonsCornstarch
2cupsPeanut oil
2tablespoonsFinely chopped garlic
3tablespoonsMinced peeled fresh ginger
4tablespoonsFinely chopped scallions
3tablespoonsRice wine or dry sherry
1tablespoonWhole bean sauce, (yellow bean sauce)
2tablespoonsDark soy sauce
1tablespoonSugar
6tablespoonsChicken stock or water

Directions

SOAK THE TANGERINE or citrus peel for 20 minutes in warm water or until it is soft. Rinse under running water, squeeze out any excess liquid, finely chop and set aside. Make 3 or 4 slashes on each side of the fish to help it cook faster and allow the flavors to permeate.

Rub the fish on both sides with the salt. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly on each side of the fish. Heat a wok or deep saute pan until it is hot. Add the oil. When hot, deep-fry the fish on each side for 5 to 8 minutes until brown and crispy. Remove fish and drain on paper towels. Pour off oil, leaving 2 tablespoons. Reheat the wok. Add chopped tangerine peel, garlic, ginger and scallions and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Put in the rest of the ingredients. Return the fish to the wok, spooning the ingredients over the top of the fish. Cover wok. Cook over low heat for 8 minutes. Serve at once. Serves 4, as part of a Chinese meal or 2, as a single dish.

KEN HOM PRODIGY GUEST CHEFS COOKBOOK