Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish

This Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is my go-to when I want something healthy, fresh, and incredibly flavorful without spending too much time in the kitchen. It combines the brightness of citrus, the warmth of garlic and ginger, and the boldness of chili and fish sauce into one delicious, balanced meal. I love how it feels light yet satisfying—perfect for dinner any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright citrus and herby flavors keep things fresh without being heavy
• Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal hands-on effort
• Clean eating comfort that still feels like a treat
• Simple ingredients I usually already have on hand

The first time I made this dish was for a family potluck, and everyone was reaching for more. Now it’s on repeat whenever I want a sunny, vibrant meal—even in the middle of winter.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
• 2 limes, juiced and zested
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 red chili, finely sliced
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. Prep the Fish
I start by rinsing the fish fillets under cold running water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade cling better and keeps the fish moist during steaming.

2. Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, I combine the lime juice and zest, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and grated ginger. I stir it until the sugar dissolves completely.

3. Marinate the Fish
I lay the fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. I let them sit for 15–20 minutes at room temperature to soak up all that bright, bold flavor.

4. Prepare to Steam
I transfer the marinated fish and all the marinade into a steaming dish. Then I scatter the sliced red chili and half of the chopped cilantro on top.

5. Steam the Fish
I place the dish into a preheated steamer and steam for 10–12 minutes. The fish is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. I make sure not to overcook—it stays tender that way.

6. Garnish and Serve
Once done, I remove the dish and sprinkle on the remaining fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness and color before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes

Variations

• Mild it down: I skip the red chili when serving kids or guests who prefer a milder taste.
• Citrus twist: Sometimes I use lemon or even yuzu for a fun variation, though lime is the most authentic.
• Change the protein: This marinade works beautifully with shrimp or tofu for a different take.
• Herb boost: I love adding a few slices of scallion or fresh Thai basil to the garnish for extra aroma.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: I store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: I gently reheat in a steamer or microwave with a splash of water to keep the fish from drying out.
• Do not freeze: The citrus-based marinade changes the fish texture if frozen, so I don’t recommend it.

FAQs

What type of white fish works best?

I usually go with cod or tilapia for their mild flavor and flaky texture, but sea bass and snapper are also great options.

How long should I marinate the fish?

I find 15–20 minutes at room temperature is perfect—long enough to infuse flavor but not so long that it starts to break down the delicate fish.

How do I know when the fish is fully steamed?

It should look opaque and flake apart easily with a fork. It usually takes about 10–12 minutes depending on thickness.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness?

Definitely. I reduce or skip the red chili for a milder dish, or add more for a bold, spicy kick.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

I usually serve it with jasmine rice or rice noodles and a side of quick stir-fried greens or cucumber salad. It balances out the citrus and heat beautifully.

Conclusion

Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is a dish I turn to when I want something fast, light, and packed with flavor. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, it brings restaurant-style Thai flavors to my home kitchen—without the fuss. Whether I’m cooking for myself or a table full of guests, this is one recipe that always impresses and never weighs me down.

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