This Thai dish is called “Pla Sahm Rot”: Fish With Three Flavored Sauce. These three flavors are the sour brought by the tamarind paste, the salty of the fish sauce and the sugar sweetness. Chilli and basil will make the dish even more delicious.
Method
- Step 1 For the three-flavoured sauce, place the chilli and garlic in a mortar and use a pestle to bruise until a very coarse paste forms (it should still be a little chunky). Set aside. Combine the tamarind, fish sauce, sugar and water in a separate bowl.
- Step 2 Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add the chilli and garlic paste and stir-fry for 30 seconds or until softened slightly. Add the tamarind mixture and stir-fry for 1 minute or until aromatic. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 3 Place a wire rack over a baking tray. Season the fish with salt. Place the flour on a plate. Toss the fish in the flour to coat. Pour enough oil to come 1cm up the side of a frying pan. Heat over medium-high heat. Cook fish, turning, in 2 batches, for 3 minutes or until golden and just cooked through. Transfer to prepared rack to drain.
- Step 4 Place the wok or frying pan with the sauce over high heat. Bring to a simmer. Add the fish and shallot. Gently toss to coat. Divide among bowls. Sprinkle with coriander. Serve with steamed rice, if using.