1 Portion Steamed Whole Fish contains approximately 250 calories, making it a low-calorie and nutritious meal option. Steaming fish is one of the healthiest cooking methods as it helps retain most of the fish's nutrients.

Fish is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for a healthy diet. Eating fish regularly can help lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of steaming fish, the steps to cook steamed fish, and the best sauces and side dishes to pair with steamed whole fish.

Health Benefits of Steamed Whole Fish

Steaming whole fish is one of the healthiest cooking methods as it preserves most of the fish's nutrients. Fish is an excellent source of lean protein, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for a healthy diet. Eating fish regularly can help improve brain function, lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, and reduce inflammation. Steaming fish is also a great option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. It is a low-calorie cooking method that doesn't require any added fats, making it a great option for a low-fat meal.

Why You Should Opt for Steamed Whole Fish

Steaming whole fish is not only a healthy cooking method, but it also helps retain the fish's natural flavor and texture. Unlike frying, baking, or grilling, steaming doesn't require any added oils or fats, which can add extra calories to your meal. Steamed whole fish is also easier to digest as it is cooked in a gentle and moist heat. This can be beneficial for those who have digestive issues or have difficulty digesting fish.

What You Need to Cook Steamed Fish

To cook steamed whole fish, you will need a steamer basket or a bamboo steamer, a heat-proof dish that fits inside the steamer, and a lid that fits snugly on top of the steamer. You will also need some aromatics such as ginger, garlic, and scallions to add flavor to the fish. The type of fish that you use for steaming is also crucial. Look for fish that has white flesh and a firm texture such as sea bass, red snapper, or tilapia. It's best to choose fish that is fresh and has been properly cleaned and gutted.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Steamed Whole Fish

1. Clean the fish and pat it dry with paper towels. Make a few slashes on each side of the fish with a sharp knife. 2. Rub the fish with salt and pepper and stuff it with some aromatics such as sliced ginger, garlic, and scallions. 3. Place the fish on a heat-proof dish that fits inside the steamer. Add some more aromatics on top of the fish and pour some water or broth at the bottom of the steamer. Cover the steamer with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Steam the fish for about 8-10 minutes or until the flesh is opaque and cooked through.

Best Sauces to Pair with Steamed Whole Fish

There are many sauces that you can pair with steamed whole fish to enhance its flavor. Some popular sauces include ginger and soy sauce, garlic and soy sauce, chili and vinegar sauce, and black bean sauce. To make a simple ginger and soy sauce, mix together some grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. Drizzle the sauce over the steamed fish just before serving.

How to Choose the Best Fish for Steaming

When choosing fish for steaming, look for fresh fish with clear eyes and shiny skin. The flesh should be firm and not have a strong fishy odor. Popular fish for steaming include sea bass, red snapper, black cod, and tilapia. Avoid using oily fish such as salmon or mackerel for steaming as they can become too rich and fatty in flavor. It's also important to properly clean and gut the fish before steaming.

Side Dishes That Complement Steamed Whole Fish

There are many side dishes that you can serve with steamed whole fish to create a complete meal. Some popular side dishes include steamed vegetables such as bok choy, broccoli, or asparagus, steamed rice, and stir-fried noodles. Steamed vegetables are a great choice as they complement the light and delicate flavor of the fish. You can also make a simple stir-fry with some vegetables and noodles for a more substantial meal.

Healthy Alternatives to Typical Fish Seasonings

To add flavor to steamed whole fish, you can use a variety of aromatics such as ginger, garlic, scallions, and lemongrass. These ingredients not only add flavor but also have health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. You can also use herbs such as cilantro, basil, and mint to add a fresh and herbal note to the dish. Another healthy seasoning option is to drizzle some lemon or lime juice over the fish just before serving.

Maximizing Flavor in Steamed Whole Fish

To maximize the flavor of steamed whole fish, you can marinate the fish with some soy sauce, sake, and mirin before steaming. This will infuse the fish with a savory and umami flavor. Another way to enhance the flavor of steamed whole fish is to add some sliced chili peppers or dried chili flakes to the dish. This will add a spicy kick to the fish and balance out its delicate flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Steamed Whole Fish

To serve steamed whole fish, you can transfer the fish to a serving platter and garnish it with some fresh herbs and sliced chili peppers. Drizzle your favorite sauce over the fish just before serving. You can also make a simple dipping sauce by mixing together some soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger. This dipping sauce pairs well with steamed whole fish and adds a tangy and savory note to the dish.