EscabecheA Filipino Sweet and Sour Fish Delight
4 Servings
Escabeche is a beloved Filipino dish that showcases the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. This dish features fried fish bathed in a tangy sauce made with vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and a medley of vegetables. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed hot or cold, as a main course or a side dish.
20min Prep
30min Cook
INGREDIENTS
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) whole fish (tilapia, milkfish, or any white fish), cleaned and scored
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooking oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- 1-inch piece ginger, sliced
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup (optional, for color)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Dredge and Fry the Fish: In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Dredge the fish in the mixture and fry in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a separate pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add bell peppers, carrots, and ginger. Cook until slightly tender.
3. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine vinegar, soy sauce, water, sugar, and ketchup (optional). Pour the mixture into the pan with the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine and Serve: Arrange the fried fish on a serving plate. Pour the sauce over the fish. Serve hot or cold.
The Story of Escabeche
Escabeche is a dish that reflects the diverse culinary influences in the Philippines. It’s believed to have originated from the Spanish “escabeche,” a method of preserving food in vinegar. Filipinos adapted the dish, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create a unique version that’s now a staple in Filipino cuisine.
Escabeche is not only delicious but also a practical dish, as the vinegar helps to preserve the fish, making it last longer. It’s a versatile dish that can be served hot or cold, as a main course or a side dish. It’s also a popular choice for potlucks and gatherings, as it can be prepared ahead of time and easily transported.
