Steamed Cod Fish

Ingredients (serves 2–3):

• cod fillets (about 250–300g total)
• 3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• 2 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hot water
• ½ tsp sugar
• 1 small knob ginger, sliced
• Parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prep the fish: Rinse and pat dry the cod. Place ginger slices under the fish on a heatproof plate (this prevents sticking and adds fragrance).
2. Steam: Bring water to a boil in a steamer. Steam the cod on medium heat for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until just cooked through.
3. Fry garlic: place the minced garlic in a small heatproof bowl and pour in just enough neutral oil to cover it. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the garlic turns a light golden brown. Remove it immediately, as it will continue to cook in the hot oil. Strain and keep both the crispy garlic and the fragrant garlic oil for later use.
4. Make sauce: mix soy sauce, hot water, and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves.
5. Assemble: Once the fish is cooked, discard the ginger slices and pour the soy dressing over the fish. Sprinkle the crispy garlic and parsley on top.
6. Serve immediately with hot rice.