Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 people
Level
medium
Rating
This variation honors the classic Vietnamese technique known as 'Ca Kho To', braising the fish in a rich, dark amber caramel sauce. The sweetness of the sugar balances perfectly with salty fish sauce, spicy ginger, and the fresh taste of trout for the ultimate comfort meal served over rice.
Pat the trout fillets dry. In a small bowl, mix the fish sauce, coconut water, and half of the black pepper.
In a clay pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sugar and stir constantly until it melts and turns a deep amber color (be careful not to burn it).
Quickly add the minced garlic, shallots, and julienned ginger to the caramelized sugar, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant to stop the caramelization process.
Add the trout pieces to the pan, turning them once to coat in the caramel mixture. Let them cook for 1 minute to sear slightly.
Pour in the fish sauce and coconut water mixture. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the fish, until the liquid reduces to a thick, sticky glaze.
Remove from heat. Garnish with the remaining black pepper, sliced Thai chilies, and chopped green onions before serving warm with steamed rice.

Seafood

Seafood

Seafood

Seafood

Seafood

Seafood