Teresa's Recipes
Cá Kho Tộ (Vietnamese Caramelized Catfish)
Cá Kho Tộ is a beloved traditional Vietnamese dish that showcases the rich flavors of catfish simmered in a savory caramel sauce. This dish is often cooked in a clay pot, which enhances the aroma and tenderness of the fish, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of fish sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness from sugar creates a delightful umami experience. Perfectly paired with steamed rice, this dish is not just a meal but a taste of Vietnamese culture and history, often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Cooking oil
- 1/4 cup, chopped Cilantro
- 1/4 cup, chopped Green onions
- 1 cup Water
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2, thinly sliced Shallots
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 2 tablespoons Sugar
- 1/4 cup Fish sauce
- 1 pound Catfish fillets
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 8g
- Protein: 36g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and black pepper until well combined to create a marinade.
- Add the catfish fillets to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to penetrate the fish.
- Heat the cooking oil in a clay pot or a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced shallots and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Carefully place the marinated catfish fillets into the pot, cooking for about 5 minutes on each side until they are slightly browned. Be gentle to avoid breaking the fillets.
- Pour in the water, bringing it to a gentle simmer. This will help create a luscious sauce.
- Cover the pot and let the catfish simmer for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the fish to become tender and the sauce to thicken to a caramel-like consistency.
- Before serving, garnish the dish with chopped green onions and cilantro for added freshness and color.
- Serve hot with steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- For a spicier version, add sliced chili peppers to the marinade.
- If you don't have catfish, you can substitute it with other firm white fish such as tilapia or snapper.
- For an authentic flavor, consider using a clay pot, which can be found in Asian markets.