Description
Vietnamese Turmeric Fish (Cha Ca La Vong) is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fried fish dish marinated with turmeric, garlic, and ginger, then cooked with fresh herbs and served over vermicelli noodles and lettuce. This traditional Vietnamese recipe offers a vibrant combination of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors complemented by toasted peanuts and mint for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Fish and Marinade
- 1 lb tilapia, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
Herbs and Aromatics
- 2 tbsp shallots, minced
- 1 tbsp dill, minced
- 1 stalk green onion, minced
Accompaniments
- 1 package vermicelli noodles
- 1 head lettuce
- Fresh mint leaves
- 2 tbsp peanuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/3 cup Vietnamese dipping sauce
- 2 tbsp fried shallots (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, combine the tilapia pieces with turmeric powder, minced garlic, minced ginger, salt, white pepper, granulated sugar, and fish sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat the fish evenly with the marinade. Set aside and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- Prepare Fresh Ingredients and Noodles: While the fish is marinating, mince the shallots, dill, and green onions. Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. Wash and prepare the lettuce and mint leaves for serving.
- Cook Shallots and Fish: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced shallots and sauté for about 1 minute until they become shiny and fragrant. Add the marinated tilapia pieces along with the remaining marinade to the pan. Cook the fish for 2 minutes on each side, ensuring the pieces are cooked through and slightly caramelized.
- Add Herbs and Finish Cooking: Add the minced dill and green onions into the pan. Stir and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their aroma and flavor, then remove the pan from the heat.
- Assemble the Vermicelli Bowl: In serving bowls, place a bed of cooked vermicelli noodles and fresh lettuce. Top with the cooked turmeric fish. Garnish with fried shallots (if using), fresh mint leaves, and toasted chopped peanuts. Drizzle Vietnamese dipping sauce over the top and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the tilapia pieces are about uniform size for even cooking.
- Adjust turmeric quantity according to taste preference for color and flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like dill and mint for authentic flavor.
- Fried shallots are optional but add a nice crispy texture.
- If vermicelli noodles are unavailable, thin rice noodles can be substituted.
- Serve immediately after assembling to maintain freshness and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
