Sweet and Sour Fish is a popular Thai seafood dish that combines crispy fried fish with a vibrant sweet-and-sour sauce made from pineapple, vegetables, and aromatic seasonings. The contrast between the crunchy fish and the glossy, tangy sauce creates a delicious balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Perfect for family meals or special occasions, this Thai-style Sweet and Sour Fish recipe is easy to prepare and delivers authentic restaurant-quality results at home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy fish with a tender, flaky interior
  • Sweet, tangy, and savory flavors
  • Colorful vegetables and juicy pineapple
  • Quick and easy to prepare
  • Great alternative to meat dishes
  • Perfect with steamed jasmine rice

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Fish

  • 500g white fish fillets (snapper, tilapia, sea bass, or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For the Vegetables

  • 1 onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tomato, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Kitchen Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Wok or deep frying pan
  • Slotted spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Paper towels

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Pat the fish pieces dry using paper towels.

Season with salt and white pepper.

Mix cornstarch and flour in a bowl, then coat the fish evenly.

Allow the fish to rest for 5 minutes before frying.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, combine:

  • Ketchup
  • Rice vinegar
  • Sugar
  • Soy sauce
  • Oyster sauce
  • Water

Mix until the sugar dissolves completely.

Set aside.

Step 3: Fry the Fish

Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan to 175°C (350°F).

Carefully fry the fish pieces in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

For extra crispiness, fry the fish a second time for 30–60 seconds.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons cooking oil in a clean wok.

Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.

Add onion and bell peppers.

Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Add pineapple chunks and tomato wedges.

Stir-fry for another minute.

Step 5: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the wok.

Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously.

Cook until the sauce thickens and develops a glossy texture.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Gently add the crispy fish to the sauce.

Toss carefully to coat the fish without breaking it apart.

Cook for 1 minute and remove from heat.

Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet and Sour Fish pairs wonderfully with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Coconut rice
  • Thai fried rice
  • Stir-fried vegetables
  • Fresh cucumber slices

Chef's Tips

  • Use firm white fish that holds its shape during frying.
  • Pat the fish dry before coating for maximum crispiness.
  • Double-fry the fish for extra crunch.
  • Fresh pineapple provides the best flavor and natural sweetness.
  • Add sliced Thai chilies for a spicy version.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 15g

Popular Variations

Whole Sweet and Sour Fish

Use a whole snapper or sea bass, deep-fried and topped with the sweet and sour sauce.

Spicy Sweet and Sour Fish

Add fresh Thai bird's eye chilies or chili paste to the sauce.

Tropical Sweet and Sour Fish

Include mango chunks along with pineapple for extra sweetness.

Healthy Baked Version

Bake the fish instead of frying for a lighter meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fish works best?

Snapper, sea bass, tilapia, cod, and grouper are excellent choices because they remain firm after cooking.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before coating and frying.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes. The sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated when needed.

How do I keep the fish crispy?

Serve immediately after combining with the sauce, or serve the sauce separately and pour it over the fish just before eating.

Final Thoughts

Thai-style Sweet and Sour Fish is a colorful and flavorful seafood dish that combines crispy fish, fresh vegetables, juicy pineapple, and a delicious sweet-and-tangy sauce. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, this dish is a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. Serve it hot with steamed jasmine rice and enjoy a true taste of Thai-inspired cuisine at home.