Braised and Caramelized Fish in Coconut Milk

People living along the Vietnamese coastline, which stretches 3,260 km, use fish as a staple in their meals. The significance of fish and its preparation is woven into the fabric of local cuisine, often expressed through the saying, “rice and fish are like a mother and her child.”

Fish can be prepared in various ways, including drying and boiling, but one of the standout dishes is fish simmered in coconut milk.
Photo: nghebep.com

Coconut is one of the essential "five fruits" that adorn the altars of southern families during Tet, the Lunar New Year celebration. Additionally, coconut is a nutrient-rich and medicinal fruit: it helps reduce cholesterol levels and aids digestion. This explains why the coconut palm is beloved in many countries; in Malaysia, it is known as “pokok seribu guna,” meaning “the plant with a thousand uses,” while in the Philippines, it is referred to as the “plant of life.”

Coconut is also commonly utilized in other braised dishes, such as caramelized pork or chicken.

Discover how to create this delightful dish with the Easy Recipe for Braised Fish in Coconut Milk.