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Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger, Spring onions, and Soy

This steamed whole fish with ginger, spring onions, and soy is a masterclass in clean, vibrant flavours. Using a whole sea bass or bream ensures the flesh remains incredibly succulent, while the aromatic ginger and fresh coriander provide a fragrant lift without the need for heavy sauces. This traditional method of steaming preserves the delicate texture of the white fish, making it a sophisticated yet simple centrepiece for any midweek meal or weekend dinner party.

As a diabetes-friendly dish, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in high-quality protein and heart-healthy fats. The flash-tempered spring onions add a professional finishing touch, releasing their sweetness when hit with the hot oil. Serve this light, nutritious main alongside steamed bok choy or a small portion of brown rice for a perfectly balanced and wholesome supper.

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Ingredients for Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger, Spring onions, and Soy

  • 1 (675g) whole white fish (such as sea bass, branzino, or flounder), cleaned with head and tail intact

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 by 1/2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely julienned

  • 60ml light soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon rice wine

  • 1 spring onion, white and light green parts only, julienned

  • 4 coriander sprigs

  • 1/2 cup canola oil

How to make Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger, Spring onions, and Soy

  1. Rinse the fish in cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season the fish inside and out with salt and pepper. Place the fish on a heatproof plate that is both large enough to accommodate it (a glass pie plate works well) and will also fit inside your steamer, bending the fish slightly if it is too long. Stuff half of the ginger inside the cavity of the fish and spread the remaining ginger on top of the fish.

  2. Pour water into a wok or stockpot and set a steamer in the wok or on the rim of the stockpot. Make sure the water does not touch the bottom of the steamer. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

  3. Place the plate holding the fish in the steamer, cover, and steam for about 8 minutes, until the fish flakes easily when tested with the tip of a knife.

  4. While the fish is steaming, in a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, wine, and 1 tablespoon of water. Set aside.

  5. When the fish is ready, carefully remove the plate from the steamer and pour off any accumulated liquid. Lay the spring onion and coriander along the top of the fish. In a small sauté pan, heat the oil over high heat until it is hot but not smoking. Remove the oil from the heat and pour it directly over the spring onion and coriander to "cook" them. Drizzle the soy mixture over the fish and serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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