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Zesty Thai Lime Steamed Fish

Featured in Hearty Main Courses.

This dish brings together delicate white fish fillets with aromatic lime juice, zest, minced garlic, and fiery red chili. Steaming locks in moisture, creating an irresistibly tender texture and a punchy balance of tart, savory, and herbaceous flavors. Finished with fresh cilantro and a hint of ginger, this Thai-inspired preparation is light, satisfying, and quick enough for busy evenings. Enjoy it with jasmine rice for a complete, energizing meal. Straightforward technique lets the zesty lime and fresh ingredients shine in every bite.

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Casey
Updated on Sat, 30 Aug 2025 20:53:24 GMT
A plate of fish with peppers and lime. Pin it
A plate of fish with peppers and lime. | cookingwithcasey.com

This zesty Thai lime steamed fish brings the vibrant flavors of a Thai seaside right to your kitchen. Delicate white fish gets bathed in fresh lime juice, garlic, ginger, and just enough chili for a little tingle. Everything steams together in one dish for perfectly flakey fish and a punchy sauce that will remind you of your favorite restaurant.

I started making this after a trip to Phuket, and honestly, it takes me back every bite. Even my pickiest eater now asks for steamed fish.

Ingredients

  • White fish fillets: cod tilapia or snapper work best they cook evenly and soak up flavors well try to pick fillets that are about a half inch thick for even steaming
  • Limes: juice and zest are key to the sauce and give the dish its signature freshness choose ones that feel heavy for their size
  • Garlic: minced because it brings that bold savory base the more aromatic the better
  • Fish sauce: for depth and real Thai flavor use a brand you trust since quality can make a difference
  • Soy sauce: adds a bit of salty umami go for a naturally brewed type
  • Sugar: balances the sharp lime just a pinch to round out the flavors
  • Red chili: sliced very thin for gentle heat birds eye is classic but use a milder chili if you prefer
  • Cilantro: fresh and chopped both a garnish and a flavor booster choose bright green bunches with no wilted leaves
  • Ginger: grated it brings a subtle warmth and helps the fish stand up to big flavors
  • For the best results use fresh ingredients and avoid bottled or pre-minced garlic and ginger

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Fish:
Rinse the white fish fillets under cool water and pat very dry with paper towels moisture will stop the marinade from clinging properly
Make the Marinade:
Whisk together the lime juice and zest minced garlic fish sauce soy sauce sugar and grated ginger in a small bowl until sugar dissolves completely
Marinate the Fish:
Place the fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over making sure everything is coated evenly cover and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes no longer to avoid over curing the fish
Set Up to Steam:
Arrange the marinated fish in a heatproof dish large enough for all the fillets to lie flat pour the extra marinade on top scatter half the chopped cilantro and sliced chili over the fish
Steam the Fish:
Put the dish in a steamer or set over simmering water cover with a tight lid steam for 10 to 12 minutes or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork
Finish and Serve:
Remove from heat sprinkle with remaining cilantro and extra chili if you like serve immediately while the flavors are at their brightest
A plate of food with lime and red peppers. Pin it
A plate of food with lime and red peppers. | cookingwithcasey.com

Cilantro for me is the magic here I remember my grandma grabbing bunches straight from her herb pots and tossing them on our fish The aroma was unbeatable and still brings me comfort every time

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave just until warm to avoid overcooking the fish

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fish sauce try a little extra soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar For a cilantro swap Thai basil or green onion works in a pinch You can use any white fish but try to avoid thicker cuts as they take longer to steam

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice Serve it with sliced cucumbers or a simple cabbage salad for a refreshing contrast Sometimes I like to pour the leftover sauce over veggies for a quick side

Cultural and Historical Context

Thai cuisine has long valued the balance of flavors and this steamed fish with lime is a prime example Traditionally served at family gatherings or festive occasions it highlights fresh seafood local herbs and punchy sauces You might find versions in street stalls along the Thai coast with each cook adding a personal twist

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of fish works best for this Thai lime dish?

White fish fillets like cod, tilapia, or snapper are ideal for their mild flavor and tender texture when steamed.

→ How zesty is the finished dish?

The flavor is bright and citrusy from fresh lime juice and zest, balanced with savory fish sauce and just enough chili heat.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness?

Absolutely. Add more or less sliced chili depending on your heat preference for a custom kick.

→ What can I serve alongside this meal?

Jasmine rice pairs perfectly, soaking up the lively sauce and complementing the light fish flavors.

→ Is marinating the fish necessary?

Marinating for 15-20 minutes ensures the lime, garlic, and ginger infuse the fish without overpowering or breaking it down.

Zesty Thai Lime Steamed Fish

Flaky white fish infused with Thai lime, garlic, and chili for a vibrant, healthy meal in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
12 Minutes
Total Time
32 Minutes
By: Casey

Category: Hearty Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Thai

Yield: 2 Servings

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main

01 2 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or snapper), approximately 150g each
02 2 limes, juiced and zested
03 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 1 tablespoon fish sauce
05 2 teaspoons soy sauce
06 1 teaspoon sugar
07 1 red chili, thinly sliced
08 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
09 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Instructions

Step 01

Rinse the white fish fillets under cold running water and pat completely dry with paper towels.

Step 02

In a bowl, combine lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and grated ginger. Mix well until sugar dissolves.

Step 03

Place the fillets in a shallow dish and coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 04

Arrange the marinated fish fillets with the marinade in a heatproof steaming dish. Sprinkle half of the chopped cilantro and sliced red chili over the fish.

Step 05

Set the dish in a steamer over simmering water. Cover and steam for 10 to 12 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Step 06

Remove from heat, garnish with remaining cilantro, and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  1. Patting the fish dry before marinating enhances flavor absorption and ensures even seasoning.
  2. Do not marinate fish for longer than 20 minutes as the acidity from lime can alter the texture.
  3. Chili quantity can be adjusted to control spiciness. For a soy-free preparation, increase fish sauce and add a splash of water.
  4. Steamed jasmine rice pairs excellently as a side.

Tools You'll Need

  • Steamer or steaming basket
  • Mixing bowl
  • Shallow dish suitable for steaming
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Grater or zester

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains fish
  • Contains soy

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 280
  • Total Fat: 8 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
  • Protein: 35 g