Citrus Carp is a delicious dish that combines the mild, tender flesh of carp with a refreshing citrus-infused sauce. This dish is popular in Chinese cuisine and other Asian culinary traditions, where citrus fruits like orange, lemon, or lime enhance the natural sweetness of the fish. The result is a light yet flavorful meal that pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables.
Citrus Carp – A Zesty and Flavorful Fish Dish
Servingsservings
4
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Prep time
30
minutesCooking time
40
minutesCalories
300
kcalIngredients
1 whole carp (about 1.5–2 lbs), cleaned and scaled
2 tbsp lemon juice (or lime/orange juice)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey (or sugar)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
1 small chili, finely chopped (optional)
1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce thickening)
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 orange, sliced for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Fish:
Rinse the carp thoroughly and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Make a few diagonal cuts on both sides of the fish to allow flavors to penetrate.
Rub the fish with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Let it marinate for 15 minutes. - Cook the Fish:
Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Carefully place the fish in the pan and cook for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove the fish and set it aside on a plate. - Make the Citrus Sauce:
In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and chili (if using). Sauté for 1 minute.
Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining lemon juice. Stir well.
Mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and add it to the sauce to thicken. Simmer for 2 minutes. - Combine & Serve:
Pour the citrus sauce over the fried fish.
Garnish with orange slices, fresh cilantro, or green onions.
Serve hot with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Notes
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest carp available for the best flavor.
