Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) Cod fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup (64g) Cornstarch
  • 1 tsp (6g) Fine sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) White pepper powder
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) Garlic powder
  • 3 tbsp (42g) Neutral oil for frying
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) Neutral oil for tossing
  • 3 cloves (9g) Garlic, minced
  • 1 large (10g) Red chili pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 stalks (15g) Scallions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) Salt
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) Ground white pepper
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) Sugar

Instructions:

  1. Pat the cod cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, white pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the cod cubes in the mixture until evenly coated, shaking off any excess powder.
  3. Heat frying oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the fish in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until a mahogany-colored crust forms. Remove and rest on a wire rack.
  4. Drain all but 2 tbsp of oil from the pan. Stir-fry minced garlic, sliced chilies, and scallions for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the salt, white pepper, and sugar. Return the fried cod to the pan and toss to coat thoroughly before serving.