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花石斑鱼 Flower Grouper (Malaysia) (550g+-)

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Product Details

Malaysia Flower Grouper refers to a specific variety of groupers (often the species Epinephelus fuscoguttatus) that are farmed or caught in Malaysia’s coastal waters. Flower Grouper is renowned for its beautiful appearance, with distinctive patterns resembling floral markings on its skin, which is why it’s called “Flower Grouper.”

Key Characteristics of Malaysia Flower Grouper:

  1. Appearance: The Flower Grouper typically has a golden-brown to reddish-brown body with darker spots or markings that resemble flowers. These patterns vary, but they are one of the key features that make this fish unique.
  2. Size: Flower Groupers can grow quite large, often reaching over 1 meter (3 feet) in length and weighing up to 20–30 kg in some cases, though farmed groupers are usually smaller and more manageable for markets.
  3. Flavor and Texture: Malaysia Flower Grouper has a mild, sweet flavor with firm, flaky white flesh. The fish is less oily than other types of fish, making it ideal for grilling, steaming, and frying. It holds its shape well, making it a popular choice for both traditional and contemporary dishes.
  4. Habitat: Flower Groupers are typically found in coral reefs and rocky areas in warm, tropical waters. Malaysia, with its extensive coastline, is home to many fisheries that harvest this species, both from the wild and aquaculture farms.

Culinary Uses of Malaysia Flower Grouper:

Flower Grouper’s mild flavor and firm texture make it a versatile fish, ideal for various cooking methods. It’s commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking and is especially popular in Malaysian and Chinese dishes.

1. Grilled Flower Grouper (Ikan Bakar):

A classic Malay dish where the fish is marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole Flower Grouper, cleaned and gutted
  • 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
  • 2 tablespoons chili paste or sambal
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Mix the turmeric powder, chili paste, soy sauce, olive oil, and salt to form a marinade.
  2. Rub the marinade all over the fish, ensuring it is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the fish for 6-8 minutes on each side or until it’s cooked through and has a nice char.
  5. Serve with lime wedges and your favorite side dishes like rice or vegetables.

2. Steamed Flower Grouper with Ginger and Soy:

Steaming is a popular method in Chinese and Malaysian cooking, as it preserves the delicate texture and flavor of the fish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Flower Grouper fillets
  • 3-4 slices of fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Fresh spring onions or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Place the fish fillets on a heatproof plate.
  2. Scatter the ginger and minced garlic on top of the fish.
  3. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the fish.
  4. Steam the fish over high heat for about 8-10 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
  5. Garnish with chopped spring onions or fresh cilantro before serving.

3. Flower Grouper in Coconut Milk Curry:

A rich, flavorful curry dish where the firm fish soaks up the aromatic coconut milk and spices.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Flower Grouper fillets, cut into chunks
  • 1 can coconut milk (400 ml)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1-2 kaffir lime leaves (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat some oil in a pan, and sauté the chopped onions until soft.
  2. Add the red curry paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar, and bring to a simmer.
  4. Add the Flower Grouper chunks and cook for 6-8 minutes until the fish is tender.
  5. Add kaffir lime leaves (if using) for extra aroma.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with rice.

4. Flower Grouper Fried with Sweet and Sour Sauce:

A favorite dish in Chinese cuisine, where crispy fried grouper is paired with a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Flower Grouper fillets, cut into chunks
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup cornflour
  • Oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup vinegar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Dip the fish pieces in the beaten egg, then coat with cornflour.
  2. Heat oil in a wok or deep fryer, and fry the fish pieces until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. In a separate pan, heat a little oil, and sauté the bell pepper and onion until softened.
  4. Add vinegar, ketchup, sugar, and soy sauce to the pan, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Toss the fried fish in the sweet and sour sauce and serve immediately.

5. Flower Grouper Soup (Ikan Siakap)

A comforting fish soup commonly served in Malaysia with a tangy broth.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Flower Grouper fillets, cut into pieces
  • 4 cups water or fish stock
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
  • 2-3 sprigs of cilantro
  • 2-3 kaffir lime leaves
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Bring water or fish stock to a boil in a large pot.
  2. Add the onion, tomato, kaffir lime leaves, and tamarind paste, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  3. Add the Flower Grouper pieces to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
  4. Season with salt to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutritional Benefits of Malaysia Flower Grouper:

  • Protein: Flower Grouper is a lean source of protein, important for muscle repair and growth.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: While not as fatty as other fish like salmon, Flower Grouper still contains beneficial omega-3s, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
  • Low in Fat: This fish is naturally low in fat, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Flower Grouper is rich in essential vitamins like B12 and niacin, and minerals like selenium, iodine, and phosphorus, supporting overall health and metabolism.

Sustainability of Malaysia Flower Grouper:

  • Aquaculture: Malaysia has a thriving aquaculture industry for grouper farming, which ensures a steady supply of fresh, sustainably farmed fish.
  • Wild Fisheries: Groupers are also caught from the wild, but overfishing is a concern in some areas. Efforts to implement sustainable fishing practices, including fishing quotas and the use of sustainable gear, are crucial for preserving grouper populations.

Conclusion:

Malaysia Flower Grouper is a versatile and flavorful fish that works beautifully in a range of dishes, from grilled and fried preparations to curries and soups. Its mild, sweet flavor and firm, flaky texture make it a popular choice in Malaysian and Southeast Asian cuisines. Whether you’re cooking a simple grilled grouper or a rich curry, Flower Grouper offers a delightful dining experience.

If you’d like more information or specific recipes, feel free to ask!