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
Scale
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