On a sunny weekend, strolling down the streets, one can smell the rich aroma wafting through the air and hear the familiar cries of vendors. Suddenly, a unique spicy aroma wafted up, making me instantly recall a home-cooked dish with a strong Guizhou flavor – Lao Gan Ma’s Braised Crucian Carp.
Lao Gan Ma cooking crucian carp
| Crucian | two Crucians |
| small chilli pepper | 10g |
| Ginger | 10g |
| Garlic | 10g |
| White onion | 20g |
| Light soy sauce | 5ml |
| Starch | 10g |
| Lao gan ma | 20g |
| beef spread | 20g |
| Soy sauce | 3ml |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Mature vinegar | 3ml |
| Coriander | 3g |
Step：
1.Prepare the necessary ingredients: (Remove the scales and internal organs from the carp, clean thoroughly, and make sure to remove the black membrane in the belly of the fish to eliminate any fishy odor; finely chop ginger, onion, and garlic separately, and cut small chili peppers into segments).
2.Make diagonal cuts on the carp, place it in a plate, and marinate with light soy sauce for 5 minutes.
3.Coat the marinated carp with a layer of cornstarch. This will make the surface of the fish crispier during the frying process.
4.Heat oil in a pan and add the carp. Fry over low heat until both sides turn golden brown, then remove from the pan and set aside.
5.Add chopped scallions, minced garlic, and minced onion to the pan. Stir-fry them evenly, then add Lao Gan Ma chili sauce and beef sauce.
6.Pour purified water into the pan and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, white sugar, and rice vinegar. Continue simmering the mixture.
7.Add the well-fried carp into the simmering sauce. Cook over high heat for another two minutes.
Tips：
1.Preparation of the carp in advance: Clean the carp by removing scales and internal organs. Make shallow cuts on both sides of the fish with a knife to allow better marination.
2.Choose fresh carp: Select carp with intact scales, bright eyes, and firm flesh to ensure a delicious taste.
Each bite of the braised carp exudes a rich and spicy flavor. The fish meat is tender, juicy, and blends perfectly with the spiciness of Lao Gan Ma sauce, making it irresistibly delicious. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with rice, it provides a wonderful culinary experience. Lao Gan Ma braised carp is not just a dish but also a memory of warm family moments. Making Lao Gan Ma braised carp at home, sharing the food and laughter with family, will surely create a cozy and happy atmosphere.