Steamed Sea Bass Fillet with Soy Sauce Recipe

As a Mum, I'm always on the lookout for ways to encourage my kids to eat more fish. While my little daughter has always been a fan, my boys took a little more convincing. That was until I started experimenting with different types of fish and new ways of cooking them. This Steamed Sea Bass Fillet with Soy Sauce recipe is one of my successes - a dish the whole family enjoys.

With sea bass fillets marinated to absorb layers or rich flavour, then steamed with vibrant shredded vegetables and herbs, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The fish is soft and tender, melting in your mouth, while the lightly cooked vegetables add crunch and freshness. Paired with round noodles or steamed rice, it's a nutritious and satisfying meal for everyone.

Why sea bass fillet?

In Vietnam, this dish traditionally uses whole fish, but as I have young kid, I prefer using fillets to minimise the risk of bones while keeping all the delightful flavours intact. It's also quicker and easier for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients for steamed sea bass fillet with soy sauce

For the fish and marinade

• Sea bass fillets - Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavour. Skin-on fillets work fine.
• Soy sauce - Adds the savoury umami base and enhances the natural sweetness of the fish.
• Oyster sauce - Provides a rich, slightly sweet flavour that complements the soy sauce.
• Sesame oil - Adds a warm, nutty aroma and smoothness to the marinade.
• Ground pepper - Enhances the overall depth with a subtle peppery kick.
• Shallot - Finely chopped for its mild sweetness and delicate flavour.
• Caster sugar - Balances the savoury ingredients with a hint of sweetness.

Vegetables and herbs

• Carrot - Adds a touch of natural sweetness, colour and crunch.
• Ginger - Essential for its warm, aromatic flavour that pairs perfectly with fish.
• Spring onion (white part) - Delicate and mild, it blends well with the fish without overpowering it.
• Pointy pepper or red bell pepper - For a pop of colour and a gentle sweetness.
• Dill - A fragrant herb that adds freshness and a signature taste to the dish.
• Onion - Thick rings provide a bed for steaming and thin slices add a slightly sweet flavour to the broth.

Soy sauce broth

• Soy sauce - Forms the base of the broth, adding savoury depth to the dish.
• Water - Dilutes the soy sauce to create a light, balanced broth that enhances the overall dish without overpowering it.

These details highlight the role of each ingredient plays in building the flavours, textures, and vibrant presentation of the dish.

How to prepare and cook Steamed Sea Bass Fillet with Soy Sauce

1. Marinate the fish

Marination is key to this recipe. Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, ground pepper, shallots and sugar. Rub the mixture thoroughly over the sea bass fillets and leave to marinate for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the vegetable and herbs

While the fish marinates, prepare the vegetables and herbs. Peel and shred the carrots into thin strips, then slice the ginger into fine sticks. Shred the white parts of the spring onions for a delicate flavour. Slice the pointy pepper for a pop of colour and sweetness. Prepare the onion by slicing it into thick rings to create a bed for the fish, and thin rings for steaming with the vegetables. Lastly, chop the dill into 2cm pieces to add a fresh and fragrant touch to the dish.

3. Make the soy sauce broth

Mix 1 part soy sauce with 2 parts water. For reference, I use about 4 tablespoons of soy sauce to create a generous amount of broth - perfect for pairing with noodles or rice.

4. Steam

Place the thick onion rings on the bottom of a deep, heatproof plate to prevent sticking.

Lay the marinated sea bass fillets in a single layer on the onion bed.

Sprinkle the ginger sticks over the fish. pour the soy sauce broth over everything.

Pour the soy sauce broth over everything.

Steam the dish over boiling water for 15 minutes

5. Add vegetables and herbs

After 15 minutes, sprinkle the remaining vegetables and dill over the fish.

Steam for another 5-7 minutes, just enough to soften the vegetables while maintaining their crunch and vibrant colours.

6. Serve and enjoy

This dish pairs beautifully with cooked round noodles, but it's just as delicious with steamed rice. Don't forget to drizzle the flavourful soy broth over the noodles or rice for an extra burst of flavour.

Optional: quick dipping sauce

For an added kick, make a simple dipping sauce:

• Mix soy sauce, a splash of water, and sugar.
• Add finely chopped ginger, dill, and red chilli for a fragrant, spicy touch.

Dinner is served!

This Steamed Sea Bass Fillet with Soy Sauce is perfect for a healthy family-friendly dinner. It's easy to prepare, full of flavour, and packed with nutrients - a winning combination for both kids and adults.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out and what you paired it with. Happy cooking!

Have you tried my other fish recipes:

• Honey Glazed Salmon: A Quick, Nutritious Dinner Idea
• Vietnamese Turmeric Fish (Cha ca La Vong)
• Vietnamese Caramelised Fish with Pepper – A Sweet and Savoury Delight