Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsAu's Garden Chinese RestaurantSalt & Pepper Egg Fish Recipe

Salt & Pepper Egg Fish Recipe

Time35m
Serves4

Make Salt & Pepper Egg Fish Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Fish

Method

Fish

  1. 1

    Prepare fish

    Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. If fillets are thick, slice into 1-inch wide strips or keep whole if desired. Season both sides evenly with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 8–10 minutes while preparing coating.

  2. 2

    Dredge

    Spread 1 cup all-purpose flour on a large plate. Lightly dredge each seasoned fillet in the flour, shaking off excess. Set dredged fillets on a wire rack or plate.

  3. 3

    Pan heat

    In a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet, add 3 tbs neutral oil and heat over medium-high until shimmering but not smoking (about 325–350°F / 160–175°C). Tilt pan so oil coats surface.

  4. 4

    First fry (sear)

    Add fillets to the hot oil without crowding the pan. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until light golden and just cooked through (timing depends on thickness). Remove fillets to a clean plate and keep warm. Reduce heat to medium-low.

Egg Coating

  1. 5

    Make egg mixture

    In a shallow bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 2 tbs milk (or water), 2 tsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp ground white pepper until smooth and slightly frothy. Cornstarch helps the egg set with a slightly crisp edge.

  2. 6

    Coat fish with egg

    Return the cooked fillets to the dredging station. Using tongs, dip each fillet into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated and a light layer clings. Let excess egg drip back into the bowl.

  3. 7

    Final fry (set egg)

    Heat the skillet again to medium heat and add a thin film (about 1 tbs) of oil. Place the egg-coated fillets into the pan and cook 1–2 minutes per side, tilting pan slightly to baste with hot oil so the egg sets and becomes slightly crisp at the edges but still tender. If pieces are thin, watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Finish & Garnish

  1. 8

    Season & rest

    Transfer fried fillets to a plate lined with paper towel for a 30–60 second rest to drain. While still warm, sprinkle lightly with extra flaky salt (about 1/2 tsp total) if using, and drizzle with 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil for aroma (optional).

  2. 9

    Garnish & serve

    Arrange Salt & Pepper Egg Fish on a serving platter. Scatter 2 tbs thinly sliced green onions and 2 tbs cilantro over the fillets. Serve immediately with lemon or lime wedges on the side for squeezing. Recommend serving with steamed rice and a simple vegetable or salad.

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