Fried Crucian Carp

Ingredients:

• 2 crucian carp (鲫鱼)

• Salt (to taste)

• Broth (enough to cover the fish halfway)

• Cooking wine (a splash)

• Soy sauce (a splash)

• Vinegar (a splash)

• Cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water)

• 10g each of chopped green onions, ginger slices, garlic slices, and star anise

• Cooking oil (enough for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the fish:Clean the fish thoroughly. Make shallow cuts across the fish on both sides (about 2-3 cuts per side) to help it cook evenly and absorb flavors.

2. Fry the fish:Heat enough oil in a pan to shallow fry the fish. Once the oil is hot, fry the fish on both sides until the surface turns golden brown. Remove the fish and set it aside.

3. Sauté aromatics:In the same pan, leave a small amount of oil. Add the green onions, ginger, garlic, and star anise. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Simmer the fish:Return the fried fish to the pan. Add a splash of cooking wine, soy sauce, and vinegar. Then pour in enough broth to cover the fish halfway. Cover the pan with a lid and let the fish simmer for 5-7 minutes.

5. Thicken the sauce:Remove the fish from the pan and place it on a serving dish. In the same pan, add salt to taste and the cornstarch slurry. Stir the sauce until it thickens.

6. Serve:Pour the thickened sauce over the fish, and your dish is ready to serve! Enjoy!