Phuket Seaside Bream

Phuket Seaside Bream is a traditional Thai dish that embodies the rich culinary heritage of Southern Thailand. Known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, this dish brings together the sweet and sour notes associated with Thai cuisine, complemented by the succulence of freshly caught seabream. Typically enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, this dish captures the essence of Phuket's coastal charm.

History of Phuket Seaside Bream

Phuket, a renowned island in Thailand, is famous not only for its picturesque beaches but also for its distinct cuisine that blends various influences from Chinese, Malay, and Thai cultures. The tradition of cooking bream, a common fish found in the Andaman Sea, has been passed down through generations. Historically, the people of Phuket have relied on the sea to provide the freshest seafood, which forms the backbone of their diet. The Phuket Seaside Bream dish exemplifies this reliance and showcases the blend of local herbs and spices.

Ingredients

• Bream - 1 whole fish, scaled and cleaned
• Lime - 2, juiced
• Lemongrass - 3 stalks, bruised
• Galangal - 2 slices
• Kaffir lime leaves - 5 leaves, torn
• Thai chilli - 3, sliced
• Shallots - 4, thinly sliced
• Fish sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Palm sugar - 2 tablespoons
• Cilantro - small bunch, chopped
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

To begin preparing your Phuket Seaside Bream, ensure your bream is properly cleaned. This involves removing the scales, gutting, and washing the insides with water to remove any remaining blood or intestines. Scoring the fish lightly on both sides allows the marinade to infuse the fish for deeper flavor.

1. Juice the limes and pour the juice over the fish, rubbing it into the scored cuts.
2. Stuff the cavity of the fish with lemongrass, galangal, and a few slices of chilli.
3. Season the fish with salt and set aside to marinate for 30 minutes while the flavors meld.

Cooking Process

Grilling the Bream

Traditional cooking methods in Phuket often utilize locally sourced charcoal for grilling, which imparts a distinct smokiness to the fish. However, a modern kitchen grill or oven will suffice for a cleaner cooking experience.

1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Place your marinated bream onto the grill or in a baking dish if using an oven.
3. Cook the fish for approximately 20-25 minutes on each side, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Timing can vary based on the size of your fish, so consider using a cooking timer.

Making the Sauce

While the fish is grilling, prepare the sauce that will accompany it.

1. In a small saucepan, combine fish sauce, palm sugar, remaining lime juice, and chilli.
2. Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and melded into a harmonious balance of flavors. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
3. Strain if desired to remove the chilli slices for a smoother sauce.

How to Enjoy Phuket Seaside Bream

To serve your Phuket Seaside Bream, place the grilled fish on a large serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and scatter some shallots over the top for added flavor and texture. Serve the sauce on the side or drizzled over the fish for enhanced taste. Pair with steamed jasmine rice and a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing accompaniment that balances the dish's bold flavors.

In Phuket, this dish is best enjoyed by the seaside with a gentle sea breeze, though at home, you can replicate this experience by setting the mood with ambient ocean sounds or dining al fresco. Each bite should evoke a sense of tropical bliss, a hallmark of Thailand's exquisite cuisine.