Classic Thai Steamed Lemon Fish (Pla Neung Manao) Recipe
Pla Neung Manao (ปลานึ่งมะนาว), or Steamed Lemon Fish, is a classic Thai seafood dish known for its fresh, tangy, and aromatic flavor. This healthy, light, and elegant dish is popular in Thai restaurants and home cooking alike.
Steamed to perfection, the fish absorbs the zesty lime, garlic, chili, and fish sauce, resulting in a bright and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
🛒 Ingredients (2–3 servings)
Main Ingredients
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Whole fish 400–500g (tilapia, seabass, or snapper), cleaned and scaled
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2–3 red chilies, sliced
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2–3 tbsp fresh lime juice
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1–2 tbsp fish sauce
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1 tsp sugar
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Fresh cilantro for garnish
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Optional: sliced shallots and ginger
🔥 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
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Clean the fish thoroughly and make 2–3 diagonal cuts on each side to help absorb the flavors.
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Place the fish on a heatproof plate suitable for steaming.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
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In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, sliced chilies, lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar.
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Pour the sauce over the fish, ensuring it fills the cuts.
Step 3: Steam the Fish
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Bring water to a boil in a steamer or large pot with a steaming rack.
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Steam the fish for 10–15 minutes, depending on size, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
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Garnish with fresh cilantro, and optionally sliced shallots or ginger.
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Serve immediately with steamed rice for a refreshing Thai meal.
💡 Tips for Perfect Pla Neung Manao
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Fresh fish is key: Ensures sweet, delicate flavor.
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Don’t overcook: Steam just until the fish flakes easily.
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Balance flavors: Adjust lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar to taste.
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Optional aromatics: Shallots, ginger, or lemongrass add extra fragrance.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use fillets instead of a whole fish?
A: Yes, but whole fish retains more moisture and absorbs the flavors better.
Q2: How spicy is this dish?
A: It’s moderately spicy from chilies, adjustable to taste.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead?
A: Best served fresh, but sauce can be prepared in advance.
Q4: What fish is best?
A: Tilapia, seabass, snapper, or any firm white fish works well.
🏆 Why You’ll Love This Steamed Lemon Fish
✔ Light, healthy, and aromatic
✔ Perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors
✔ Elegant yet easy to prepare at home
✔ Ideal for pairing with steamed rice or Thai-style meals
