Seafood: How it’s Used in Asian Cuisine

by Joost Nusselder Updated:  September 11, 2022

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As with any cuisine, the ingredients used in Asian cooking are essential to making the dishes taste great. But what makes Asian food so unique is the way these ingredients are used.

Seafood is a common ingredient in Asian cuisine. It’s used in everything from soups and stir-fries to sushi and tempura. The type of seafood used depends on the country or region, but some of the most common are fish, shrimp, clams, and squid.

Let’s look at how seafood is used in Asian cooking and some of the techniques used.

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Seafood in Asian Cuisine: A Dive into the Popular Ingredients and Techniques

Asian cuisine is known for its wide variety of seafood dishes, which include fish, shrimp, clams, and more. The type of seafood used in Asian cuisine depends on the country and region, but some of the most popular ones include:

• Fish: Fish is a staple in many Asian countries, and it’s typically served grilled, boiled, or fried. Some of the most common fish used in Asian cuisine include salmon, tuna, and mackerel.

• Shrimp: Shrimp is another popular seafood in Asian cuisine, and it’s often used in dishes like stir-fries, soups, and curries. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilled, boiled, or fried.

• Clams: Clams are a delicious ingredient in many Asian dishes, and they’re often combined with other seafood or vegetables to create flavorful dishes. They can be prepared in a variety of ways, including steamed, boiled, or grilled.

What are the different techniques used to prepare seafood in Asian cuisine?

Asian cuisine is known for its unique cooking techniques, which vary from country to country. Some of the most common techniques used to prepare seafood in Asian cuisine include:

• Grilling: Grilling is a popular way to prepare seafood in many Asian countries, and it’s often used to cook fish and shrimp. The seafood is typically marinated in a sauce or condiment before being grilled to perfection.

• Boiling: Boiling is another common way to prepare seafood in Asian cuisine, and it’s often used to make soups and stews. The seafood is typically combined with other ingredients like vegetables and herbs to create a flavorful dish.

• Frying: Frying is a popular technique used to prepare seafood in many Asian countries, and it’s often used to make crispy dishes like tempura and dynamite rolls.

• Fermenting: Fermenting is a culinary technique that’s commonly used in East Asian cuisine, and it’s often used to make condiments like soy sauce and kimchi. Fermented seafood products like fish sauce and shrimp paste are also commonly used in Asian cuisine.

What are the popular condiments and sauces used in Asian seafood dishes?

Condiments and sauces are an important part of Asian cuisine, and they’re often used to add flavor and spice to seafood dishes. Some of the most popular condiments and sauces used in Asian seafood dishes include:

• Soy sauce: Soy sauce is a common condiment in many Asian countries, and it’s often used to add a salty flavor to seafood dishes.

• Teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce is a sweet and savory sauce that’s commonly used in Japanese cuisine, and it’s often used to flavor grilled seafood dishes.

• Gochujang paste: Gochujang paste is a spicy and slightly sweet paste that’s commonly used in Korean cuisine, and it’s often used to add flavor to seafood soups and stews.

• Coconut milk: Coconut milk is a common ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine, and it’s often used to make creamy seafood curries and soups.

• Garlic and herbs: Garlic and herbs like spring onions and cilantro are commonly used to add flavor to seafood dishes in many Asian countries.

• Spices: Spices like cumin, coriander, and chili are commonly used to add flavor to seafood dishes in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine.

• Mirin: Mirin is a sweet rice wine that’s commonly used in Japanese cuisine, and it’s often used to add a sweet flavor to seafood dishes.

• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a surprising ingredient in some Asian seafood dishes, and they’re often combined with spices and herbs to create a delicious blend of flavors.

Exploring the Vibrant World of Asian Seafood Dishes

Chinese cuisine is famous for its seafood dishes, which are cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most popular Chinese seafood dishes:

• Steamed Fish: This dish is made by steaming fresh fish with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. It is a healthy and tasty option that is often served in high-end Chinese restaurants.
• Shandong-style Braised Prawns: Shandong is a province in China that is known for its seafood dishes. This dish is made by braising prawns in a savory sauce made with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
• Xiā Jiǎo (Shrimp Dumplings): These dumplings are a popular dim sum dish that is made with minced shrimp and garlic. They are served steamed and are a must-try for seafood lovers.
• Salt and Pepper Shrimp: This dish is made by deep-frying fresh shrimp and then tossing them in a mixture of salt, pepper, and other spices. It is a hot and spicy dish that is perfect for those looking for a bold flavor.

Seafood Dishes from Other Asian Countries

Asian cuisine is not limited to Chinese dishes. Here are some other popular seafood dishes from different Asian countries:

• Bàoyú Yuán (Abalone in Shell): This dish is a specialty from Macao, a former Portuguese colony in China. It is made by roasting fresh abalone in the shell with garlic and other spices.
• Oysters from Àomén Pú Yuán (Macao Portuguese Garden): This dish is made with fresh oysters that are served raw with a variety of sauces. It is a truly original dish that celebrates the flavors of Macao.
• Gāoxióng Ézǐ Jiǎyú Pàn (Kaohsiung Omelet with Scallops): This dish is a specialty from Kaohsiung, a city in Taiwan. It is made by frying fresh scallops with eggs and vermicelli noodles. It is a tasty and filling dish that is perfect for breakfast or lunch.

Unique Seafood Dishes

Asian cuisine is known for its unique and sometimes unusual dishes. Here are some seafood dishes that are sure to strike gold with adventurous eaters:

• Suànróng (Turtle Soup): This dish is a delicacy in China and is made by boiling fresh turtle meat with herbs and spices. It is believed to have health benefits and is often served in high-end Chinese restaurants.
• Lìhuáng Shāo Lóng (Roasted Locust): This dish is a specialty from Yunnan, a province in China. It is made by roasting fresh locusts with garlic and other spices. It is a crunchy and flavorful dish that is perfect for those looking for something truly unique.
• Chǎo Xiǎnzi Báizhuóxiā (Stir-fried Clams with Vermicelli): This dish is a popular street food in China and is made by stir-frying fresh clams with vermicelli noodles. It is a tasty and affordable dish that is perfect for those on a budget.

No matter what your taste preferences are, there is a seafood dish from Asia that is sure to satisfy. From the original flavors of Chinese cuisine to the unique dishes from other Asian countries, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you find yourself looking for a tasty and healthy meal, be sure to try one of these delicious seafood dishes.

How Fish is Prepared and Served in Asian Cuisine

One of the most popular ways to prepare fish in Chinese cuisine is by steaming it. Fresh seafood, particularly bass and red snapper, is usually used for this dish. The fish is pulled straight from the sea and brought to the restaurant to be prepared. The dish is said to be light and healthy, particularly when ginger and other ingredients are added to the steaming process. The fish is cooked until it’s hot and mouth-watering, and the bones are left in to add flavor. To eat, diners use their fingers to pull the fish meat off the bones and place it on their plate. It’s considered polite to avoid spitting out any bones.

Boiled Fish: A Sichuan Specialty

Sichuan cuisine is known for its hot and spicy flavors, and boiled fish is no exception. The dish, also known as shuǐzhǔyú, is made by poaching fish fillets in a spicy broth made with chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and other seasonings. The fish is usually served with a side of rice and a cold beer, or yángshuò and píjiǔ in Chinese pronunciation. The dish is particularly popular in the west of China, where it’s made with fish from the Xīhú, or West Lake, in Hangzhou. The vinegar added to the broth gives the dish a tangy flavor that balances out the heat.

Hunan-Style Fish: A Fiery Delight

Hunan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, and the same goes for its fish dishes. One of the most popular is diced fish with peppers, or húnán duò jiāo yútóu in Chinese characters. The dish is made by stir-frying fish head and bones with diced peppers and other seasonings until it’s crispy and golden. The dish is said to be particularly good with carp, or lǐyú in Chinese pronunciation. Another popular Hunan fish dish is the Hunan-style poached fish, or húnán shuǐzhǔ yú. This dish is made by poaching fish fillets in a broth made with chili oil, ginger, and other seasonings. The dish is particularly popular in the city of Changsha, where it’s often served with a side of rice.

Xiamen-Style Fish: A Spicy and Sour Treat

Xiamen, a coastal city in Fujian province, is known for its seafood dishes, particularly its spicy and sour fish. The dish, known as shuǐ zhǔ huó yú in Chinese characters, is made by poaching a whole fish in a broth made with chili oil, vinegar, and other seasonings. The fish is served with a side of rice and is said to be particularly good with yellow croaker, or huáng gǔ in Chinese pronunciation. The dish is often found in restaurants near the sea, where fresh seafood is readily available.

Seafood: A Healthy Addition to Your Diet

Seafood is not only a delicious addition to your diet, but it also offers a variety of health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why seafood is considered a healthy food choice:

• Seafood is rich in protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Certain types of seafood, such as salmon and tuna, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Seafood is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron.
• Studies have shown that people who consume seafood regularly tend to have a lower risk of death from heart disease compared to those who don’t eat seafood.

Scientific Research Supports the Health Benefits of Seafood

Over the past few decades, scientific research has shown that seafood consumption can positively affect our health in a variety of ways. Here are some of the impressive findings:

• According to a review of studies, omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood can help protect against heart disease by reducing blood pressure and inflammation.
• Another study found that people who consume seafood regularly have a lower incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD) compared to those who don’t eat seafood.
• The vitamin D content in seafood has been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, including breast, colon, and prostate cancer.
• Seafood consumption has also been associated with a reduced risk of depression and improved brain function.

Seafood Takes the Cake for Nutrient Content

Seafood is one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can eat. Here are some of the nutrients you can expect to find in common types of seafood:

• Fish: Fish is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.
• Clams: Clams are packed with iron, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Liver: Liver is a concentrated source of vitamin A, vitamin B12, and iron.
• Egg drop soup: This traditional Chinese soup is made with eggs and chicken broth, and is a good source of protein and vitamin B12.

Seafood Consumption May Reduce the Risk of Certain Diseases

In addition to the health benefits mentioned above, seafood consumption has also been linked to a reduced risk of certain diseases. Here are some examples:

• A study found that people who consume seafood regularly have a lower risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in older adults.
• The omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a contributing factor to many chronic diseases, including arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Seafood consumption has also been associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.

How Much Seafood Should You Consume?

While seafood offers many health benefits, it’s important to consume it in moderation. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• The American Heart Association recommends consuming at least two servings of seafood per week.
• Make sure to choose a variety of seafood to ensure you’re getting a range of nutrients.
• Pregnant women and young children should avoid certain types of seafood that are high in mercury, such as shark, swordfish, and king mackerel.

In conclusion, seafood is a healthy and delicious addition to your diet. With its high nutrient content and potential to reduce the risk of certain diseases, there’s no doubt that seafood should be included in your meals. Just be sure to consume it in moderation and choose a variety of types to reap the most benefits.

Conclusion

So there you have it- the many ways seafood is used in Asian cuisine. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the many flavors of the region. You can explore the vibrant world of Asian seafood dishes by using fresh ingredients and unique cooking techniques.

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Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.