Culichi fish, a beloved Filipino dish, offers a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors perfect for any occasion, especially during Lent. This comforting and surprisingly easy recipe features tender fish fillets simmered in a rich sauce of vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic, creating a balance that's both tangy and subtly sweet. The vibrant aroma alone is enough to entice your taste buds, promising a culinary experience that's both familiar and exciting. Its simplicity belies the depth of its flavor, making it a perfect dish for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.
This recipe isn't just about the delicious end result; it's about the journey of creating a flavorful masterpiece. The straightforward steps guide you through each stage, ensuring a successful and enjoyable cooking process. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions for preparing this exquisite Culichi Fish.
Tools Needed
- Griddle
- Plastic bag
- Knife
- Blender
- Frying pan
- Baking tray
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- Poblano chiles: 3
- Onion: 1/4
- Cilantro
- Garlic cloves
- Mexican cream
- Milk
- Seasoning powder
- Tilapia fillets (or other white fish)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil or butter
- Chihuahua cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Poblano Chile Sauce
- Grill the poblano chiles on a griddle at medium temperature for about 15 minutes. Place them in a plastic bag for 7 minutes to steam and make it easier to remove the skin.
- Remove the chiles from the bag and peel off the skin using a knife. Cut off the stems and remove the seeds. Chop the chiles into squares and set aside.
- Quarter the onion and use only one quarter. Blend the chopped chiles, cilantro, onion, garlic, Mexican cream, milk, seasoning powder, and salt in a blender until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2. Cook the Tilapia
- Season the tilapia fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a pan over medium heat, melt butter or olive oil. Add the fish and cook for 3 minutes per side, covered.
- Transfer the partially cooked fish to a baking tray. Grease the bottom and sides of the tray with butter, add the fish, and arrange them.
Step 3. Bake and Melt Cheese
- Pour the blended sauce over the fish, completely covering them. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, remove the foil, and top with Chihuahua cheese. Cover with foil again and bake at 275°F (135°C) for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy! This dish pairs well with white rice.
Read more: Crispy Fish Tacos Recipe: Easy Fried Tilapia Tacos
Tips
- If you can’t find tilapia, you can substitute it with any type of white meat fish.
- Don't overcook the fish in the pan, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Make sure all ingredients are well blended for a special texture to the sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes! Firm, white fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia work well. Avoid overly flaky fish.
2. What if I don't have all the ingredients listed?
You can adjust the recipe. If you're missing sugar, you can reduce the vinegar slightly. Garlic is key, but you can omit other spices if needed.
3. How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Don't overcook it!
This easy Culichi fish recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the satisfying blend of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your family and friends wanting more. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to experience the simple joy of this classic Filipino dish!