Caramelized Black Pepper Braised Goby Fish

Step 1: Clean the Fish

Rub goby fish thoroughly with coarse salt and vinegar to remove slime and fishy odors. Gut the fish, rinse thoroughly under running water, and pat completely dry.

Step 2: Marinate

Arrange fish in a clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan. Marinate with 2 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp seasoning powder, 1 tsp caramel sauce, 1 tbsp crushed peppercorns, bruised shallots, and chili for 25-30 minutes.

Step 3: Braise the Fish

Place clay pot over medium heat, bringing marinade to a bubbling boil until fish firms up. Swirl the pot gently without stirring to prevent fish from breaking.

Drizzle 1 tbsp lard (or vegetable oil) over the top, add 3-4 tbsp warm water along the edges. Lower heat to minimum and simmer slowly until liquid thickens.

Step 4: Finishing

When the sauce becomes glossy and clings to the fish, top with abundant freshly cracked black pepper and chopped scallions. Turn off heat and serve immediately with hot rice.