The Dog Days Are Coming: Regularly Cook These 4 Fish for Your Family to Boost Protein, Strengthen Immunity, and Keep Everyone Healthy

The benefits of fish go far beyond its delicious taste—it’s packed with high-quality protein, golden Omega-3 fatty acids, and an array of vitamins and minerals that silently safeguard your health. Eating fish regularly gives children the nutrients they need to grow, helps the elderly maintain strong bones and vitality, and keeps the head of the household energetic with a robust immune system! While fish like hairtail and crucian carp often grace our dining tables, the ones I’m recommending today are the true "top students" in nutrition!

1. Braised Spanish Mackerel

Homestyle Braising Method (Super Simple!)

1. Cut fresh Spanish mackerel into thick chunks and pat dry (this prevents the skin from breaking when frying).

2. Heat some oil in a pan, then add the fish chunks and pan-fry until both sides are golden brown (the secret to a fragrant dish!).

3. Add scallion segments, ginger slices, a few garlic cloves, dried chili peppers (if you like them), and a small handful of Sichuan peppercorns for aroma.

4. Deglaze with cooking wine, light soy sauce, a dash of dark soy sauce for color, and a bit of vinegar to enhance freshness and remove any fishy taste.

5. Pour in hot water until it just covers the fish.

6. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

7. Finally, adjust the seasoning with salt if needed, garnish with cilantro or scallions, and enjoy the irresistible aroma!

2. Deep-Fried Small Yellow Croaker

Homestyle Frying Method (Crispy Secret!)

1. Clean the small yellow croakers thoroughly, especially scraping off the black membrane inside the belly (key to removing fishiness).

2. Marinate with shredded scallions and ginger, cooking wine, a pinch of salt, and white pepper for 15 minutes.

3. Prepare two plates: one with beaten egg and another with dry flour.

4. Coat the marinated fish first in egg, then in flour (shake off excess).

5. Heat enough oil in a pan to 60% hot (small bubbles should form around a chopstick when dipped in).

6. Fry the coated fish over medium heat until set and lightly golden, then remove.

7. Increase the oil temperature to 80% hot and refry the fish until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels!

3. Steamed Perch

Homestyle Steaming Method:

1. Clean a fresh perch and make diagonal cuts on both sides (helps it cook evenly and absorb flavors).

2. Place a few slices of ginger and scallion segments on a plate, then lay the fish on top, stuffing more ginger and scallion inside the cavity.

3. Drizzle a little cooking wine over the fish and sprinkle lightly with salt.

4. Once the steamer water boils, place the fish in and steam over high heat for 8–10 minutes (adjust based on size).

5. Turn off the heat immediately when done—do not lift the lid! Let it sit covered for 2 more minutes (ensures perfect tenderness).

6. Remove the fish, discard the liquid in the plate, and take out the ginger and scallions.

7. Top with fresh scallion shreds, ginger shreds, and red pepper shreds for color.

8. Pour over some steamed fish soy sauce (or a mix of light soy sauce, a bit of sugar, and water).

9. Heat a spoonful of oil until smoking and pour it over the scallions and ginger—listen for the sizzle and enjoy the burst of fragrance!

4. Steamed Grass Carp Slices

Homestyle Steaming Method (Tender & Non-Fishy!)

1. Use the middle section of a grass carp and ask the fishmonger to slice it thinly (or do it yourself patiently).

2. Rinse the slices several times in clean water until the water runs clear (removes fishiness and slime), then squeeze dry.

3. Marinate with a pinch of salt, white pepper, cooking wine, ginger shreds, and a teaspoon of starch (locks in moisture for tenderness).

4. Finally, mix in a little oil to prevent sticking and marinate for 10 minutes.

5. Arrange the slices flat on a plate (do not overlap).

6. Once the steamer water boils, steam the fish over high heat for 3–5 minutes (remove once the slices turn white and curl—do not overcook!).

7. Take out, sprinkle with chopped scallions, and drizzle with steamed fish soy sauce or light soy sauce.

8. Heat a spoonful of oil and pour it over the scallions to release their aroma!

Fragrant Fish, Rooted Health. These recipes hold the secret codes to resisting illness, fueling dreams with protein-packed energy, and carrying forward the warmth of love and responsibility. Don’t hesitate—pick one tonight and let the savory aroma fill your kitchen.

(Note: The original text was expanded to meet the 800-word requirement while maintaining natural flow and adding slight elaborations for readability.)