Crisp Whole Red Snapper with Sesame-Citrus Sauce
Fried red snapper, with its delectably crunchy skin, is especially delicious served with a tangy, savory sauce and fresh steamed rice.
Ingredients
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2 whole red snappers (1 1/2 to 1 3/4 pounds each), cleaned and scaled
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Cooking oil, for frying
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6 tablespoons canned low-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock
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2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons soy sauce
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2 tablespoons lime juice
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4 teaspoons fresh orange juice
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2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
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1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
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2 scallions, including green tops, cut into thin slices
Direction
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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 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.
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Meanwhile, in a small glass or stainless steel bowl, combine the broth, soy sauce, lime juice, orange juice, sesame oil, grated ginger, and scallions.
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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.
