Fish Ampiang Recipe

Fish Ampiang Recipe: A Flavorful Filipino Dish You Need to Try

If you’re looking to explore the rich and vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine, then Fish Ampiang is a dish you must try. A unique twist on traditional Filipino flavors, Fish Ampiang offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. This hearty and comforting dish features fish cooked with a blend of fresh ingredients and spices that will surely delight your taste buds.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Fish Ampiang, a flavorful Filipino recipe that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or just looking to expand your culinary horizons, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

What Is Fish Ampiang?

Fish Ampiang is a traditional Filipino dish where fish is simmered with a variety of vegetables and a distinct tamarind-based broth. The dish is known for its tangy and savory flavors, often accented by chili peppers for a bit of heat. The combination of fresh fish, vibrant vegetables, and a unique souring agent like tamarind gives this dish a deliciously complex flavor profile that reflects the best of Filipino home cooking.

The term “Ampiang” generally refers to the use of souring agents, particularly tamarind, in Filipino cuisine. In this recipe, tamarind gives the dish its signature tang, making it an exciting and refreshing alternative to the usual salty or sweet seafood dishes.

Ingredients for Fish Ampiang

To make Fish Ampiang, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

For the Fish and Broth:

1-1.5 lbs (450-680g) fish (tilapia, bangus, or any white fish works well)
6 cups water
1 medium onion, chopped
2-3 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
2 tablespoons fish sauce (or more to taste)
2-3 tablespoons tamarind paste (or fresh tamarind if available)
2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables:

1 medium eggplant, sliced into rounds
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1-2 long green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup kangkong (water spinach), or spinach as a substitute
1-2 fresh red or green chili peppers (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Lime wedges for extra tang

Instructions for Making Fish Ampiang

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps of making this delightful dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Fish and Broth

Start by cleaning and gutting the fish, then rinse them thoroughly. If you’re using whole fish like tilapia or bangus, you can choose to leave the head and tail on for added presentation, or you can use fillets if you prefer.

In a large pot, add the water, onions, tomatoes, ginger, and fish sauce. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat and l