Cha Ca Thang Long: Hanoi-Style Turmeric Fish with Dill

Introduction

Cha Ca Thang Long is a traditional Vietnamese dish that originated in Hanoi. This flavorful and aromatic dish features turmeric-marinated fish, typically white fish like cod or halibut, cooked with fresh dill, green onions, and peanuts. The dish is usually served with vermicelli noodles, rice paper, herbs, and dipping sauce. Today, we’ll guide you through the ingredients and steps to recreate this delicious Hanoi-style turmeric fish with dill in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

– 1 pound of white fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 tablespoons of fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
– 4-5 green onions, chopped
– 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts, crushed
– Vermicelli noodles, cooked according to package instructions

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the fish fillets, fish sauce, turmeric powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the fish is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the marinated fish to the pan, spreading it out into a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the fish is lightly browned.
4. Add half of the chopped dill and green onions to the pan, gently mix with the fish, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the crushed peanuts over the fish and gently toss to combine.
6. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the fish to a serving platter.
7. Top the fish with the remaining dill and green onions.
8. Serve the Cha Ca Thang Long hot with vermicelli noodles, rice paper, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in this iconic Vietnamese dish that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Hanoi. Bon appétit!

FAQ about Cha Ca Thang Long: Hanoi-Style Turmeric Fish with Dill

What is Cha Ca Thang Long?

Cha Ca Thang Long is a traditional Vietnamese dish originating from Hanoi. It consists of turmeric-marinated fish, often white fish like cod or catfish, cooked with dill and other herbs.

How is Cha Ca Thang Long prepared?

To prepare Cha Ca Thang Long, the fish is first marinated in a mixture of turmeric, fish sauce, garlic, and other seasonings. The marinated fish is then pan-fried in oil and served with fresh dill and other accompaniments like vermicelli noodles, peanuts, and dipping sauce.

What does Cha Ca Thang Long taste like?

Cha Ca Thang Long has a unique and flavorful taste profile. The turmeric imparts a warm, earthy flavor to the fish, while the dill adds a refreshing herbal note. The dish is typically savory, aromatic, and slightly tangy.

What are the traditional accompaniments for Cha Ca Thang Long?

Traditional accompaniments for Cha Ca Thang Long include vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, roasted peanuts, shrimp paste sauce, pickled vegetables, and nuoc cham dipping