Vietnamese Whole Fried Fish Fresh Rolls

Vietnamese Fresh Fish Rolls for Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year in my family wouldn't be complete without Vietnamese Fresh Fish Rolls, a dish that brings everyone together. Picture this: a whole golden crispy fish served with fresh rice paper, vermicelli noodles, and a flavorful dipping sauce. While this might not be a traditional Lunar New Year dish, it's a beloved tradition in our home, and I'm excited to share how I make it extra special.  Chuc mung nam mới 🧧✨

If you takeaway any tips, please please please pat your fish dry and your pan and oil is nice and hot for that delectable fish skin!

Ingredient Categories

For the Fish:

• 1 whole yellowtail snapper (about 2 lbs), cleaned and gutted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing)

For the Fresh Rolls:

• 16 rice paper sheets (about 4 per person)
• 8 oz vermicelli noodles (cooked according to package instructions)

For the Dipping Sauce:

• ¼ cup fish sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 Thai chili, finely chopped (optional, for heat)

For the Garnishes:

• ¼ cup scallion oil (recipe below)
• ¼ cup roasted peanuts, crushed
• ¼ cup crispy shallots (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 red chili pepper, thinly sliced

Fresh Vegetables & Herbs:

• 1 head of green leaf lettuce, washed and leaves separated
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup cilantro leaves
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 carrot, julienned

How to make Vietnamese Style Whole Fried Fish

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

1. Pat the fish dry with paper towels and score both sides with shallow diagonal cuts.
2. Season the fish evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Heat a heavy skillet (preferably enameled cast iron) over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
4. Once hot, carefully place the fish in the pan and cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the skin is golden and crispy.
5. Transfer the fish to a serving dish.

Step 2: Make the Dipping Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together fish sauce, water, sugar, and lime juice until the sugar dissolves.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped Thai chili (if using).
3. Set aside for serving.

Step 3: Prepare the Garnishes

Scallion Oil:

1. Heat ¼ cup vegetable oil in a small saucepan until shimmering.

2. Add ½ cup finely chopped scallions and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant but still bright green.

3. Spoon the scallion oil over the crispy fish.

4. Sprinkle the fish with roasted peanuts, crispy shallots, and sliced red chili pepper for extra flavor and crunch.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, rinse under cold water, and drain.
2. Arrange the rice paper, noodles, herbs, and vegetables on the table for a DIY experience.
3. To assemble, dip a sheet of rice paper in warm water for a few seconds, then fill with a piece of fish, noodles, and your choice of veggies and herbs.
4. Roll tightly and dip into the prepared fish sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the crispy fish family-style on a large platter with all the garnishes and fresh vegetables arranged beautifully. Let everyone roll their own fresh rolls for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Tips for Success:

• Use a fish that is meaty and firm, such as snapper, sea bass, or tilapia, to ensure it holds up well during cooking.
• Don't overcrowd the pan when searing the fish to achieve a crispy crust.
• If you're new to rolling fresh rolls, don't worry—practice makes perfect!

Wishing you a joyful and prosperous Lunar New Year! 🧧✨ Chuc mung nam mới!