Name: Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod or tilapia); 2 limes, juiced and zested; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 red chili, finely sliced; 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

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This Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish recipe is light, flavorful, and bursting with fresh, zesty, and aromatic ingredients. I like how simple it is to prepare while still delivering restaurant-quality results. The balance of citrus, garlic, chili, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant and healthy dish I always enjoy making.

Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, clean, and packed with flavor. The combination of lime juice and zest brightens up the fish, while garlic and chili add a gentle heat. It’s a healthy option I can prepare on a busy weeknight without much effort. I also enjoy how the fish soaks up all the aromatic broth during steaming, leaving it incredibly tender and moist.

Ingredients

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

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

Directions

I start by patting the fish fillets dry and setting them aside.
In a bowl, I mix the lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and sliced chili.
I place the fish fillets on a heatproof plate or dish that fits inside my steamer.
Then I pour the sauce mixture evenly over the fillets.
I steam the fish over medium heat for about 10–12 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Once done, I sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top before serving.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the white fish for salmon for a richer flavor.
If I want less heat, I leave out the chili or use a milder variety.
Adding thinly sliced lemongrass gives a deeper citrus aroma I enjoy.
For a heartier meal, I serve this fish over jasmine rice or with steamed vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently steam the fish again or microwave it for 1–2 minutes, being careful not to overcook it. I avoid freezing this dish because the texture of the fish can change.

FAQs

How Do I Know When The Fish Is Fully Cooked?

I check if the fish flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque all the way through. It usually takes about 10–12 minutes of steaming.

Can I Make This Dish Without A Steamer?

Yes, I sometimes place the fish and sauce in a covered dish and bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes instead of steaming.

What Type Of White Fish Works Best?

I like using cod, tilapia, or sea bass. Any mild-flavored, firm white fish fillet works well.

Is This Dish Spicy?

The red chili adds a bit of heat, but I can always adjust the spiciness by adding more or less chili—or leaving it out altogether.

Can I Prepare The Sauce In Advance?

Yes, I often mix the sauce a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. It lets the flavors blend nicely before cooking.

Conclusion

This Thai Lime-Garlic Steamed Fish is a dish I return to again and again for its bold flavors and simplicity. It’s a healthy, fast, and satisfying recipe that always hits the mark. Whether I’m cooking for family or just want something light and fresh, this recipe never disappoints.