Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce Recipe

Embark on a culinary adventure with this crisp whole red snapper recipe. The dish is a delight for the senses, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite, and an unforgettable burst of Asian-inspired citrus flavors that will take your dining experience to new heights.

Photos of Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce Recipe

The star of this recipe is the whole red snapper, a type of fish that provides a mildly sweet taste and a firm texture. It can be found in most supermarkets, particularly in the seafood section. Asian sesame oil and fresh ginger, which enhance the flavor of the dish, can usually be found in the international or Asian aisle of your supermarket.

Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce Ingredients

Whole red snappers: These are the main protein for this dish, providing a unique, mildly sweet flavor and firm texture.

Cooking oil: Used to fry the fish until it's crisp and golden.

Chicken broth: Adds a deep, savory flavor to the citrus sauce.

Soy sauce: A staple in Asian cuisine, it gives the sauce a rich, salty taste.

Lime juice: Adds a tangy note to the sauce, balancing out the richness of the soy sauce and broth.

Fresh orange juice: Gives the sauce a fresh, citrusy sweetness.

Asian sesame oil: Has a strong, nutty flavor that adds depth to the sauce.

Fresh ginger: Gives the sauce a spicy, aromatic kick.

Scallions: Used for garnish, they add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

One reader, Juditha Wu says:

The crisp whole red snapper with Asian citrus sauce recipe is a game-changer! The fish turned out perfectly crispy and the citrus sauce added a delightful tangy flavor. It's a must-try for seafood lovers looking for a unique and delicious dish. Highly recommend giving it a go!

Juditha Wu

Cooking Techniques for Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce

How to prepare the fish: Rinse the fish and dry the surface and the cavity of each thoroughly with paper towels.

How to fry the fish: In a 12-inch or larger nonstick frying pan, heat 3/8 of an inch of cooking oil over moderately high heat until very hot. A deep-fat thermometer should register 375°F. Carefully add the fish, letting the tails stick out of the pan if necessary. Let the fish cook, without moving them, until crisp and browned, about 9 minutes. Using a large spatula, carefully turn each fish. Continue cooking until crisp and browned and just done, about 7 minutes longer. Drain on paper towels.

How to make the citrus sauce: In a small glass or stainless-steel bowl, combine the broth, soy sauce, lime juice, orange juice, sesame oil, grated ginger, and scallions.

How to serve the fish: Serve the fish on a platter. Run a knife between the flesh and the bones and lift off the fillet with the skin attached. Turn the fish over and repeat. Pass the sauce.

How to choose fish alternatives: In place of the whole red snappers, you can use whole sea bass, porgies, or rockfish of the same weight.

How to pair with wine: A crisp, acidic white wine will be best with the citrus flavors and Asian ingredients of this dish. Try a sauvignon blanc from the Loire Valley in France (Sancerre) or a pinot blanc from the Alsace region.

How To Make Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce

Whole red snapper is fried until the skin is crispy and the flesh is tender to make a quintessential Asian dish that’s brightened up with citrus sauce.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2wholered snappers,(1½ to 1¾ lbs each)
cooking oil
6tbspchicken broth,or homemade stock, canned, low sodium
2tbspsoy sauce,(plus 2 tsp)
2tbsplime juice
4tspfresh orange juice
2tspasian sesame oil
½tspfresh ginger,grated
2scallions,including green tops

Instructions

Rinse the fish and dry the surface and the cavity of each thoroughly with paper towels. In a 12-inch or larger nonstick frying pan, heat cooking oil over moderately high heat until very hot. A deep-fat thermometer should register 375 degrees F.
Carefully add the fish, letting the tails stick out of the pan if necessary. Let the fish cook for 9 minutes, without moving them, until crisp and browned.
Using a large spatula, carefully turn each fish. Continue cooking for 7 more minutes until crisp and browned and just done.
Drain on paper towels.
Meanwhile, in a small glass or stainless-steel bowl, combine the broth, soy sauce, lime juice, orange juice, sesame oil, grated ginger and scallions.
Serve the fish on a platter.
Run a knife between the flesh and the bones and lift off the fillet with the skin attached. Turn the fish over and repeat.
Pass the sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 2846.06kcal
Fat: 70.82g
Saturated Fat: 10.08g
Trans Fat: 0.14g
Monounsaturated Fat: 29.28g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 22.26g
Carbohydrates: 2.97g
Fiber: 0.31g
Sugar: 1.13g
Protein: 514.18g
Cholesterol: 925.67mg
Sodium: 2073.05mg
Calcium: 810.40mg
Potassium: 10524.50mg
Iron: 4.79mg
Vitamin A: 804.65µg
Vitamin C: 46.36mg

Pro Tip for Achieving Perfectly Crisp Skin on Red Snapper

When frying whole fish like red snapper, it's important to ensure that the oil is heated to the correct temperature before adding the fish. This helps to achieve a crispy, golden brown exterior while ensuring the fish is cooked evenly throughout. A deep-fat thermometer is a useful tool for this. Also, remember to handle the fish gently when turning it in the pan to prevent the skin from tearing. Lastly, when making the Asian citrus sauce, combining the ingredients in a specific order isn't necessary. However, it's recommended to add the fresh ginger and scallions last to preserve their fresh flavors.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the citrus sauce and clean the fish the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly combine the ingredients for the citrus sauce, saving time on chopping and mixing by hand.

Delegate tasks: Enlist the help of a friend or family member to assist with the preparation, such as cleaning the fish or assembling the ingredients for the sauce.

Organize ingredients: Before you begin cooking, gather and organize all the necessary ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the fish is cooking, use that time to prepare the citrus sauce or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce Recipe

whole red snapper – Substitute with whole sea bass: Sea bass has a similar texture and flavor to red snapper, making it a great substitute for this recipe.
cooking oil – Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for high-heat cooking like frying the fish.
chicken broth – Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar savory depth of flavor without the poultry undertones.
soy sauce – Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a rich umami flavor.
lime juice – Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar citrusy tang to the dish.
fresh orange juice – Substitute with tangerine juice: Tangerine juice has a similar citrusy sweetness and acidity that can replace orange juice in the recipe.
asian sesame oil – Substitute with toasted sesame oil: Toasted sesame oil has a deeper, nuttier flavor that can enhance the dish.
fresh ginger – Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute in a 1:1 ratio for fresh ginger in this recipe.
scallions – Substitute with chives: Chives can provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of green color similar to scallions.

Plating Ideas for Crisp Whole Red Snapper

Elevate the whole red snappers: Carefully arrange the whole red snappers on the platter, ensuring they are positioned in an aesthetically pleasing manner. The fish should be the focal point of the dish, showcasing its crispy and golden exterior.
Garnish with fresh citrus slices: Adorn the platter with vibrant and thinly sliced citrus fruits, such as oranges and limes, to add a pop of color and freshness to the presentation. These citrus slices will complement the flavors of the dish and provide an elegant touch.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce delicate and colorful edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to add a touch of sophistication to the plating. The blossoms will contribute to the visual appeal of the dish and create a visually stunning presentation.
Utilize Asian-inspired tableware: Select elegant and minimalist tableware with an Asian aesthetic to enhance the overall presentation. Consider using sleek ceramic plates or bowls that complement the flavors and cultural inspiration behind the dish.
Create a dynamic sauce drizzle: Artfully drizzle the Asian citrus sauce over the fish using a squeeze bottle or a small ladle, incorporating fluid and graceful movements to create an eye-catching pattern on the platter. The sauce should be applied with precision to enhance the visual appeal.
Incorporate microgreens: Sprinkle a delicate arrangement of vibrant microgreens, such as cilantro or shiso, around the perimeter of the platter to introduce a visual contrast and add a touch of refinement to the presentation.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the dish with a focus on symmetry and balance, ensuring that the plating is visually harmonious and aesthetically pleasing from every angle.
Highlight the crispy texture: Showcase the crispy texture of the red snapper by elevating the fillets slightly, allowing them to catch the light and create an enticing visual appeal that emphasizes the dish's texture.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crisp Whole Red Snapper

Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for preparing and cutting ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, multipurpose knife for slicing, dicing, and chopping.
Nonstick frying pan: Used for frying the red snapper until crisp and browned.
Deep-fat thermometer: Essential for monitoring the oil temperature when frying the fish.
Small glass or stainless-steel bowl: For mixing and combining the ingredients of the Asian citrus sauce.
Spatula: Used for carefully turning the fish while frying.
Knife: For filleting the cooked fish before serving.
Platter: To present and serve the cooked whole red snapper.
Wine glasses: For serving the recommended wine with the dish.

How To Reheat Leftover Crisp Red Snapper

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover crisp whole red snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is heated through and the skin is crispy once again. This method helps to preserve the original texture of the dish.
For a quicker reheating option, use an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover red snapper in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is heated through and the skin is crispy. The air fryer's rapid circulation of hot air will help to restore the crispiness of the fish's exterior.
If you prefer a moister reheating method, wrap the leftover whole red snapper in aluminum foil with a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth. Place the wrapped fish on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is heated through. The added moisture will help to prevent the fish from drying out during the reheating process.
For a stovetop option, place the leftover crisp whole red snapper in a non-stick skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Add a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to the pan, then cover and heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is heated through. This gentle steaming method will help to retain the fish's moisture while reheating.
To reheat the asian citrus sauce, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the sauce is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.

Interesting Trivia About Red Snapper

The recipe for crisp whole red snapper with asian citrus sauce is a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy seafood. The combination of crispy fish and tangy citrus sauce creates a delightful dish that is sure to impress. This recipe offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout choice for any seafood lover. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a special meal, this recipe is a great option to try. With the right wine pairing, such as a sauvignon blanc from the Loire Valley in France or a pinot blanc from the Alsace region, this dish can be elevated to a whole new level.

Is Making Crisp Whole Red Snapper at Home Cost-Effective?

This crisp whole red snapper with Asian citrus sauce recipe offers a moderate cost-effectiveness for a household. The ingredients, such as whole red snappers, soy sauce, and lime juice, are relatively affordable and accessible. The dish's exotic flavors and the use of whole fish add value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $30-$40. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, considering the balance of cost, flavor, and nutritional value.

Is This Crispy Fish Recipe Healthy?

The crisp whole red snapper with Asian citrus sauce recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but there are a few aspects that could be improved:

Red snapper is a lean, protein-rich fish that provides essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health
The citrus sauce ingredients, such as lime juice, orange juice, and ginger, offer vitamin C and anti-inflammatory properties
Scallions add flavor and contain beneficial compounds like vitamin K and antioxidants

However, the recipe calls for frying the fish in a significant amount of cooking oil, which increases the fat and calorie content of the dish. Additionally, the soy sauce in the citrus sauce contains sodium, which could be a concern for those watching their salt intake.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider these suggestions:

Instead of frying the fish, try grilling, baking, or steaming it to reduce the amount of oil used
If frying is preferred, use a healthier oil like avocado or coconut oil, which are more stable at high temperatures and contain beneficial fats
Reduce the amount of soy sauce in the citrus sauce or opt for a low-sodium version to decrease the overall sodium content
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as stir-fried bok choy or steamed broccoli, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Serve the fish with a side of brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to incorporate more complex carbohydrates and fiber into the meal

Editor's Take on This Crispy Fish Dish

The recipe for Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The cooking method ensures a crispy exterior while maintaining the delicate flesh of the red snapper. The Asian citrus sauce adds a zesty and aromatic element that complements the fish beautifully. The use of fresh ginger and scallions enhances the dish with a subtle warmth and freshness. This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and is sure to impress with its visual appeal and vibrant taste.

Enhance Your Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Bok Choy: Create a light and refreshing steamed bok choy with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a perfect balance of flavors.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Grill up some juicy pineapple slices for a sweet and tangy side dish that pairs perfectly with the crispy whole red snapper and asian citrus sauce.

Coconut Rice: Whip up a batch of fragrant coconut rice to complement the bold flavors of the asian citrus sauce and add a touch of creaminess to the meal.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Dish

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: This dish is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines tender chicken with fresh Thai basil and spicy chili peppers. It's a perfect balance of heat and savory flavors.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing salsa is a delightful combination of sweet mango, creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and spicy jalapeno. It's a perfect accompaniment to grilled fish or chicken.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: This velvety smooth soup is made with roasted butternut squash, onions, and a touch of cream. It's a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for a cozy night in.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in this decadent dessert that features a rich and gooey chocolate center surrounded by a moist and fluffy cake. It's a show-stopping treat for any special occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement This Recipe

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized delights are the perfect way to start any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with crispy coconut shrimp. These crunchy, golden bites are served with a tangy dipping sauce, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Lemon Tart: Savor the tangy and refreshing flavors of a lemon tart, with a buttery and flaky crust that perfectly complements the zesty lemon filling. Garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and added sweetness.

Why trust this Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce Recipe:

This crisp whole red snapper with asian citrus sauce recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, showcasing the freshness of red snapper and the zesty tang of Asian citrus sauce. The cooking method ensures a crispy exterior while maintaining the fish's succulence. The combination of soy sauce, lime juice, and fresh orange juice in the citrus sauce creates a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. With carefully curated ingredients and precise instructions, this recipe exudes authenticity and promises a memorable dining experience, earning the trust of discerning home cooks and seafood enthusiasts alike.

Want to share your experience making this Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Asian Citrus Sauce? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

What is the best type of fish to use for this recipe?

The best type of fish to use for this recipe is whole red snapper. However, you can also use whole sea bass, porgies, or rockfish of the same weight as alternatives.

Can I use a different type of citrus juice if I don’t have lime or orange juice?

Yes, you can substitute lime or orange juice with other citrus juices such as lemon or grapefruit. The key is to maintain the citrusy flavor in the sauce.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

How do I know when the fish is done cooking?

The fish is done cooking when it turns crisp and brown on both sides. You can also check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish – the flesh should flake easily.

What wine would pair well with this dish?

A crisp, acidic white wine pairs best with the citrus flavors and Asian ingredients of this dish. I recommend trying a Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley in France (Sancerre) or a Pinot Blanc from the Alsace region.