Description
Fried dace with stir-fried greens is a simple, savory Cantonese-inspired dish combining crispy, umami-rich canned fried dace with fresh, garlicky Chinese greens. This quick and balanced meal pairs the oily, flavorful fish with slightly bitter greens for a satisfying dish, perfect served alongside steamed rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Fried Dace
- 1 can (6 oz) fried dace with salted black beans
- 1 tablespoon oil from the can (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Greens
- 2–3 garlic cloves, sliced
- 1 bunch Chinese greens (choy sum, gai lan, or bok choy), washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped chili
- Sesame oil drizzle
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Garlic: Heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of oil from the canned fried dace (if using) in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir-Fry Greens: Toss in the chopped greens and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, until they begin to wilt.
- Add Seasonings: Add soy sauce, sugar, and a splash of water. Stir-fry another 1–2 minutes until the greens are tender-crisp and evenly coated in the sauce.
- Warm Fried Dace: Push the greens to one side of the pan. Gently warm the fried dace on the other side, breaking it into large chunks and heating through for 2–3 minutes.
- Plate and Garnish: Serve the greens topped with the warmed fried dace or side-by-side. Garnish with chopped chili or a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.
Notes
- Chinese greens can be substituted with spinach or kale depending on availability.
- Fried dace is naturally salty and flavorful, so minimal additional seasoning is needed.
- This dish pairs perfectly with hot jasmine or short-grain rice for a complete meal.
