Vietnamese-Style Caramelized Trout
Main Dishes

Vietnamese-Style Caramelized Trout

A delicious trout coated in a fish sauce caramel, accented with fresh ginger and chili. A flavorful and spicy dish inspired by Vietnamese cuisine, served with bok choy and steamed rice for an authentic and balanced meal.

Prep⏱️ 10 min
Cook🔥 15 min
Servings👥 2 servings
Difficulty📊 Medium
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🛒 Ingredients

2 servings

2
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 red chili, minced
  • 1 large piece fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 whole rainbow trout or fillets
  • 2 heads bok choy
  • Juice of 1/2 fresh lemon
  • Fresh cilantro sprigs
  • Cooked steamed white rice

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Directions

  1. 1

    Pour the sugar into a large, shallow skillet with a splash of water. Heat gently, swirling the pan until the sugar is completely dissolved.

  2. 2

    Increase the heat and let it bubble until it reaches a dark caramel color.

  3. 3

    Add the fish sauce, most of the chili and ginger, and 1 tablespoon of water to thin it out. Let it bubble again until it reaches a syrupy consistency.

  4. 4

    Place the trout skin-side down and the bok choy cut-side down. Cover with a lid and simmer for 4-5 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

  5. 5

    Turn off the heat, squeeze the lemon juice over the top, and garnish with the remaining chili, ginger, and cilantro.

  6. 6

    Serve immediately with steamed rice.

💡 Chef's Tip

For best results, use fresh trout. Do not overcook the fish so it remains moist. The caramel can be prepared in advance and reheated just before adding the fish.