Ca kho to caramelized fish in clay pot

ca_kho_to_caramelized_fish_in_clay_pot

Vietnam is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, and one dish that stands out for its unique taste is Ca kho to, a caramelized fish dish cooked in a clay pot. This traditional Vietnamese dish has been passed down through generations and is a beloved recipe across the country. Every household in Vietnam has their version of this dish, making it a versatile one that can be adapted to suit different tastes.

Ca kho to, also known as clay pot fish, is a simple yet sumptuous dish made with fish, caramelized sugar, fish sauce, and various other ingredients. The dish is usually cooked with catfish or snakehead, but other fish can be used as well. The fish is first marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, garlic, shallots, and other herbs and spices, then caramelized with sugar and cooked in a clay pot until it absorbs all the flavors.

The use of a clay pot is an essential element of this dish. Clay pots are used in traditional Vietnamese cooking for the unique flavor they impart to the dish. The clay is porous, which allows the food to cook slowly and absorb all the flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a delicious and tender dish.

Ca kho to is a versatile dish that can be served with steamed rice or noodles, and it goes well with a variety of vegetables such as bok choy or water spinach. The dish can also be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions. For example, some people add coconut water or coconut milk to the dish, while others add ginger and lemongrass to give it a unique flavor.

The dish’s history is not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. As the region is surrounded by waterways, fish is a staple in the local cuisine, and clay pots are often used to cook them. The dish has since gained popularity across Vietnam and beyond, making it a must-try recipe for food enthusiasts.

In recent years, Ca kho to has gained recognition on the world stage, with Vietnamese restaurants in various countries including it in their menus. It is not only delicious and easy to make but also has numerous health benefits. Fish is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, and consuming it regularly can help improve heart health, brain function, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

In conclusion, any food lover who has tried Ca kho to will agree that it is one of the most flavorful and satisfying dishes in Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that can be easily prepared with few ingredients, and the use of a clay pot makes it even more special. The next time you visit a Vietnamese restaurant or want to try your hand at cooking Vietnamese cuisine, make sure to give Ca kho to a try, and you won’t regret it!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound of catfish, salmon, or other firm-flesh white fish
  • 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of minced shallots
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups of water
  • 2 stalks of scallions, sliced thinly

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the fish under cold running water and pat them dry. Cut it into 2-inch pieces.

  2. In a heavy-bottomed clay pot, combine the sugar and vegetable oil over medium heat. Stirring constantly, cook the sugar until it caramelizes and turns dark amber in color, which will take around 5-7 minutes.

  3. Add the minced garlic and minced shallots and stir. Cook until the garlic and shallots turn fragrant and lightly browned, which will take around 1-2 minutes.

  4. Add the fish sauce, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) and stir. Cook for another minute.

  5. Add the water and stir well. Lower the heat and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  6. Add the fish into the pot, making sure to coat each piece with the sauce.

  7. Let the fish cook for 10-15 minutes over low heat, carefully turning them occasionally so that each piece is evenly cooked.

  8. Garnish with sliced scallions and serve hot with steamed rice.

Enjoy your delicious Vietnamese Ca kho!