If you’re looking for a comforting dish that marries bold flavors and vibrant textures, this Fried Dace with Stir-Fried Greens Recipe is an absolute winner. Featuring tender pieces of fried dace simmered in savory black bean sauce, paired with bright and crisp-stir-fried Chinese greens, this dish delivers a perfect balance of salty, earthy, and fresh notes. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and packed with umami goodness that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Fried Dace with Stir-Fried Greens Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the rich black bean sauce that envelops the fish to the lively greens that bring color and crunch. Here’s what makes this dish so special:
- 1 can fried dace with salted black beans (about 184g): Provides the hearty, savory base with its signature salty-black bean flavor.
- 2 cups Chinese greens (e.g., choy sum, gai lan, or spinach), washed and chopped: Bring freshness, color, and a slightly sweet note that balances the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant depth and an aromatic lift during stir-frying.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: A neutral fat perfect for stir-frying without overwhelming flavors.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Enhances umami and adds a subtle saltiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional): Boosts richness and adds a silky texture to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Balances the saltiness and sharpness with a mild sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps create a light sauce that coats the greens and fish nicely.
- Salt and white pepper to taste: Final seasonings to adjust the flavor perfectly.
How to Make Fried Dace with Stir-Fried Greens Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fish and Sauce
Open the can of fried dace carefully and gently remove the fish pieces, setting them aside. Don’t forget to reserve some of that wonderfully savory black bean sauce—this will infuse the greens with deep flavor later on.
Step 2: Stir-Fry Garlic and Greens
Heat your vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Toss in the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing its wonderful aroma. Immediately add the chopped greens, tossing them around for 1 to 2 minutes until they just start to soften but still have a vibrant bite.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce if you’re using it, sugar, and water. Stir everything together to create a flavorful mix. Cook the greens for another 2 to 3 minutes until tender and bright, allowing the sauce to gently coat them without overpowering their natural freshness.
Step 4: Combine Fish and Greens
Now gently add the fried dace pieces back into the wok, along with a spoonful of that reserved black bean sauce. Carefully fold the fish into the greens to keep the delicate fish mostly intact. Let the dish heat through for 1 to 2 minutes so all those flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 5: Final Seasoning
Finish by seasoning with salt and white pepper to taste. This final touch lets you adjust the seasoning just right, making each bite perfectly balanced and irresistible.
How to Serve Fried Dace with Stir-Fried Greens Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped scallions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds work wonderfully here. They add subtle texture and an extra layer of aroma that perfectly complements the dish without stealing the show.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with fluffy steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up those savory juices. For a heartier meal, a bowl of warm miso soup or lightly pickled vegetables can round out the experience nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of flair, serve this Fried Dace with Stir-Fried Greens Recipe family-style on a large platter, letting everyone help themselves. Alternatively, layer the greens on a plate and place the fish elegantly on top for a restaurant-inspired look. A small drizzle of chili oil for those who love a spicy kick is always a welcome addition, too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fried dace and greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, retaining most of its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish in a sealed container for up to one month. Make sure to thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating gently to avoid overcooking the greens and fish.
Reheating
Reheat the leftovers on the stovetop in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring gently to warm evenly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the fish dry and the greens soggy.
FAQs
What types of greens work best in this recipe?
Chinese greens like choy sum, gai lan, or spinach are ideal because they cook quickly and offer a pleasant mild bitterness that complements the savory fried dace beautifully.
Can I substitute the fried dace with fresh fish?
Fresh fish could work, but the distinct salty black bean flavor from the canned fried dace is key to this recipe’s charm. If using fresh fish, you’ll need to add fermented black beans or black bean sauce separately to replicate that depth.
Is oyster sauce necessary?
Oyster sauce is optional but highly recommended. It adds a velvety richness that rounds out the flavors, especially when combined with soy sauce and sugar.
How spicy is this dish?
This Fried Dace with Stir-Fried Greens Recipe is not inherently spicy. However, you can easily add heat with chili flakes or fresh chili slices if you prefer a kick.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace fried dace with firm tofu and omit the oyster sauce or use a vegan alternative. The black bean sauce and garlic provide plenty of flavor to keep it satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Dace with Stir-Fried Greens Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — quick to prepare, packed with soulful flavors, and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Asian-inspired cooking or just diving in, this recipe promises to deliver comfort and satisfaction every time. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant textures and rich tastes that make it so special!
Print
Fried Dace with Stir-Fried Greens Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Chinese dish featuring canned fried dace with salted black beans, stir-fried alongside fresh Chinese greens and aromatic garlic, seasoned with soy and oyster sauces for a savory, homestyle meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Fried Dace and Sauce
- 1 can fried dace with salted black beans (about 184g)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 cups Chinese greens (e.g., choy sum, gai lan, or spinach), washed and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the fried dace: Open the can of fried dace and gently remove the fish pieces from the can, reserving some of the black bean sauce for later use.
- Heat the oil and garlic: Place a wok or skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the greens: Add the washed and chopped Chinese greens to the wok and stir-fry them for 1 to 2 minutes, just until they begin to wilt but retain their bright color.
- Add seasonings and water: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and water. Stir everything well to combine and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the greens are tender yet crisp.
- Incorporate the fried dace: Gently place the fried dace pieces back into the wok along with a spoonful of the reserved black bean sauce. Carefully fold the fish into the greens without breaking it apart, letting the mixture heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and season with salt and white pepper as needed. Serve the fried dace and stir-fried greens hot, ideally accompanied by steamed rice.
Notes
- Chinese greens like choy sum, gai lan, or spinach can be substituted based on availability and preference.
- Oyster sauce is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor; omit for a vegetarian version (adjusting other ingredients accordingly).
- Be gentle when folding in the fried dace to keep the fish pieces intact.
- This dish pairs perfectly with steamed white rice for a simple meal.
- Adjust salt carefully as the black bean sauce is already salty.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
