Fish head casserole facts for kids
 |
|
| Course | Main course |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | China |
| Main ingredients | Fish heads |
Fish head casserole (which is called shā guō yú tóu in Chinese) is a tasty seafood dish. It comes from Jiangsu province in China. This dish gets its name because its main ingredient is, you guessed it, fish heads! These are cooked slowly in a special pot called a casserole.
Contents
What is Fish Head Casserole?
Fish head casserole is a famous Chinese dish known for its rich flavor and creamy broth. It's often served as a main meal. People enjoy it because it's said to be very nutritious and delicious.
What Ingredients Are Used?
To make this casserole, you need a few key ingredients. The most important part is a large fish head, usually weighing about 1 kilogram (which is about 2.2 pounds).
Other ingredients include:
- Tofu: A soft, white food made from soybeans.
- Cayenne pepper: A spice that adds a little heat.
- Sesame oil: An oil with a nutty flavor.
- Vegetable oil: Used for cooking.
- Garlic sprouts: Young garlic plants that look a bit like chives.
- Shallot: A type of onion with a milder taste.
- Ginger: A root that adds a fresh, spicy flavor.
- Soy sauce: A salty, brown liquid used in many Asian dishes.
- Salt: To season the dish.
- Cooking wine: Used to add flavor and tenderize the fish.
- White sugar: A small amount to balance the flavors.
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG): A flavor enhancer.
How Is It Made?
Making fish head casserole involves a few steps:
- First, the fish head is carefully washed.
- Then, it's marinated (soaked) in soy sauce to give it flavor.
- Next, the fish head is lightly fried in oil. Cooking wine is often added during this step.
- After frying, the fish head is stewed, meaning it's cooked slowly in liquid for a long time. This helps all the flavors mix together.
- The broth in this dish turns a milky white color, which shows it's cooked perfectly.
- Finally, the dish is served hot, often topped with fresh garlic sprouts and a drizzle of sesame oil.
The History of This Dish
Fish head casserole was first created in the area around Tian Mu Lake in China. For a long time, it was mainly known and enjoyed only within China. However, in 1982, something special happened. The dish was served to important visitors, including diplomatic envoys (people who represent their country) and their spouses. After they tasted it, the dish became famous in other parts of the world too!
