Delicious Squirrel Fish Recipe: Sweet & Sour Sensation!

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

When the festive season approaches, I can t help but reminisce about the vibrant gatherings filled with laughter and the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen. One dish that forever holds a special place on my table is Squirrel Fish in Sweet & Sour Sauce. Originating from Jiangsu Province, this show-stopping dish isn t just a feast for the eyes; it delivers an exquisite balance of crispy texture and sweet-tangy flavors that make every bite memorable.

Imagine the dramatic presentation of a beautifully filleted fish, its flaky, tender meat nestled beneath a glossy sauce that glistens under the light it s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you re celebrating Chinese New Year or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a perfect way to break away from the mundane fast food routine. You might even discover that making this restaurant-quality dish at home is easier than you think! Let s dive into the ingredients that will transform your kitchen into a festive haven.

Why is the Squirrel Fish Recipe unforgettable?

Impressive Presentation: This recipe transforms your dining table into a visual masterpiece that s sure to wow guests.
Flavor Fusion: The sweet-tangy sauce beautifully complements the crispy fish, creating layers of flavor in every bite.
Ease of Preparation: With just basic cooking skills, you can create a show-stopping dish that feels gourmet.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in fish fillets for a quicker route while still enjoying all the flavors.
Celebratory Appeal: Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners, this dish elevates any occasion.
Culinary Adventure: Dive into traditional Chinese cuisine and impress your loved ones with this delightful culinary experience your taste buds will thank you!

Squirrel Fish Recipe Ingredients

For the Sauce

• Sugar Adds sweetness to the sauce; you can use honey for a unique flavor twist.
• Hot Water Helps dissolve sugar and cornstarch; warm water works if hot isn t available.
• Cornstarch Thickens the sauce and coats the fish for frying; no direct substitute recommended.
• White Vinegar Adds acidity and a tangy profile; apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute.
• Pineapple Juice Provides sweetness and acidity in the sauce; try orange juice for a different flavor dimension.
• Ketchup Serves as the base for the tomato mixture; use tomato puree as an alternative if needed.
• Tomato Paste Intensifies flavor and thickens the sauce; adjust the quantity to taste, as no direct substitute exists.
• Salt Enhances the dish s flavor perfectly; don t forget this essential staple.
• White Pepper Offers mild warmth and subtle heat; feel free to swap in black pepper if that s what you have on hand.

For the Fish

• Whole Freshwater Bass/Sea Bass/Branzino This is your star ingredient; select a fish weighing around 1.5 to 2 pounds. Substitute with a similar-sized white fish if necessary.
• Clear Rice Wine Adds umami depth to the dish; it s best not to substitute for authentic flavor.
• Sesame Oil Imparts a nutty aroma; choose a neutral oil if unavailable, but be aware of flavor changes.
• Egg Yolk Essential for binding the coating when frying; you might use aquafaba for a vegan adaptation.

For Frying and Garnish

• Peanut Oil/Canola Oil Perfect for frying; opt for oil with a high smoke point to achieve that crispy finish.
• Pine Nuts Ideal for garnishing; substitute with toasted almonds or walnuts if desired.
• Frozen Peas Adds a pop of color as a garnish; fresh peas can work beautifully if they re available.
• Onion Used for sautéing in the sauce; shallots can serve as a convenient replacement in a pinch.

With these ingredients ready, you re on your way to creating an unforgettable Squirrel Fish recipe that will leave your guests talking long after the meal has ended!

How to Make Squirrel Fish

1. Make Sauce Mixtures: Start by combining sugar with hot water in a bowl until dissolved. Mix in cornstarch, white vinegar, pineapple juice, salt, and white pepper for the vinegar mixture. In another bowl, blend ketchup and tomato paste for the tomato mixture.

2. Prepare Fish: Carefully fillet the fish, keeping the fillets attached at the tail for a beautiful presentation. Make crosshatch cuts on the fillets to ensure even cooking.

3. Dredge Fish: In a separate dish, dip the filleted fish in a marinade of clear rice wine, sesame oil, and egg yolk. Coat thoroughly with cornstarch for a crispy finish while frying.

4. Fry Fish: Heat peanut oil or canola oil in a deep pan to 425 °F. Gently fry the fish until it s golden brown, spooning hot oil over the top to keep its shape. Fry the head separately until evenly golden.

5. Prepare Sauce: In the remaining oil, sauté chopped onion until fragrant. Add the previously prepared tomato mixture, then stir in the vinegar mixture. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens nicely.

6. Assemble: Transfer the fried fish to a serving plate, drenching it in the luscious sauce. Finally, garnish with blanched peas and sprinkle with fried pine nuts for that delightful finishing touch.

Optional: Serve immediately for optimal crispiness alongside steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Squirrel Fish Recipe

Room Temperature: It s best to serve Squirrel Fish immediately after cooking to maintain its crispy texture. Avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours.

Fridge: If you have leftover sauce, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the fish separately as it will lose its crispiness.

Freezer: Freezing the whole fish is not recommended, as it will affect the texture upon reheating. However, you may freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When reheating, gently warm the sauce on the stovetop. If you have leftover fish, reheat in an oven at a low temperature to help revive crispiness rather than microwaving.

What to Serve with Squirrel Fish in Sweet & Sour Sauce?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly balance the vibrant flavors of this Chinese classic.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the sweet-tangy sauce, creating a comforting base that complements every bite.
• Stir-Fried Bok Choy: With its tender-crisp texture and mild flavor, it adds a refreshing green element while enhancing the overall nutrition of your meal.
• Sesame Noodles: Their nutty undertones and silkiness offer a delightful contrast to the crispy fish, making every mouthful a joyful mix of tastes.
• Crispy Spring Rolls: Golden and crunchy with savory fillings, they provide a delicious appetizer that pairs wonderfully with the sweet sauce of the fish.
• Hot and Sour Soup: This soup s zesty notes and rich broth prepare your palate for the flavorful main dish, bringing warmth to your gathering.
• Chilled Cucumber Salad: Its crispness and light vinaigrette counterbalance the richness of the fish, offering a refreshing touch to the table.
• Lychee Sorbet: For dessert, this fruity treat cleanses the palate with its sweetness, leaving a memorable finale to your dining experience.
• Chinese Tea: A fragrant pot of Oolong or Jasmine tea complements the dish beautifully, enhancing its flavors while providing a comforting drink option.

Expert Tips for Squirrel Fish Recipe

• Filleting Technique: Practice filleting fish can significantly enhance your skill. Aim to keep the fillets attached at the tail for better presentation.
• Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure the oil is heated to 425 °F; frying at a lower temperature leads to greasy fish, ruining the crispy texture.
• Crosshatch Cuts: Making the crosshatch cuts on the fillets not only aids in cooking but also allows the sauce to cling better, maximizing flavor in your squirrel fish recipe.
• Spoon Oil Over Fish: While frying, use a spoon to pour hot oil over the fish; this helps maintain the shape and create that visually appealing texture.
• Sauce Thickness Check: Allow the sauce to simmer until thickened just right; it should coat the fish without being too runny for a stunning presentation.
• Garnishing Tips: Use fresh peas for a pop of color and flavor; it s an easy way to elevate the presentation and enhance your dish s visual appeal!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Squirrel Fish recipe ahead of time can simplify your cooking process and make entertaining a breeze! You can prep the sauce mixtures (vinegar and tomato) up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate them in airtight containers. Additionally, you can clean, fillet, and prepare the fish by making crosshatch cuts and marinating it in rice wine, sesame oil, and egg yolk; this can be done up to 24 hours ahead to enhance the flavors. When you re ready to serve, simply coat the fish in cornstarch and fry as instructed, following with the sauce assembly. This approach maintains the dish s delightful textures and flavors while saving you time on busy days!

Squirrel Fish Recipe Variations

Feel free to let your creativity splash into this recipe by exploring delicious twists and substitutions that suit your taste buds!

• Fillet Option: Use skin-on fish fillets instead of a whole fish for an easier preparation that still delivers on flavor.
• Fish Variety: Swap in other flaky white fish like cod or halibut to modify your dish based on availability or preference, adding a personal touch!
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful heat that ll tantalize your taste buds.
• Fruit Flavor: Substitute pineapple juice with fresh orange juice or mango puree for a different sweet and tangy flavor profile.
• Mellow Milk: Use coconut milk instead of regular sesame oil to impart a creamy, tropical twist to the dish.
• Nutty Finish: Garnish with toasted pecans or hazelnuts in place of pine nuts for an unexpected but satisfying crunch.
• Herbaceous Touch: Toss in chopped fresh cilantro or basil during plating to brighten flavors and add a vibrant pop of color.
• Vegan Version: For a spin on this dish, use firm tofu in place of fish, marinating it and cooking it until crispy for a delightful plant-based adaptation.

With these exciting variations, every family dinner can be a fresh adventure bursting with new flavors!

Squirrel Fish Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right fish for the Squirrel Fish recipe?
Choosing the perfect fish is crucial for an unforgettable dish! Look for a whole freshwater bass, sea bass, or branzino weighing about 1.5 to 2 pounds. Ensure the fish is fresh by checking for clear, bright eyes and shiny skin, without any dark spots. If you can t find these varieties, any similar-sized flaky white fish will work beautifully.

What s the best way to store leftover Squirrel Fish?
It s best to enjoy your Squirrel Fish immediately to retain that crispy goodness! If you have leftover sauce, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Unfortunately, storing the fried fish can lead to loss of texture, so try to keep it separate and finish it all at once!

Can I freeze the Squirrel Fish sauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze the sauce for future use. Transfer it to an airtight container, and it will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

What if my fish turns out greasy when frying?
Maintaining the right oil temperature is key! Make sure your oil reaches 425 °F before frying; if it s too low, the fish will absorb more oil, resulting in a greasy finish. Additionally, spooning hot oil over the fish helps to crisp it up while ensuring it cooks evenly don t skip this step!

Can I make this recipe if I have an allergy to certain ingredients?
Definitely! You can adapt the Squirrel Fish recipe to suit your dietary needs. For example, if you re sensitive to wheat, be sure to use a gluten-free cornstarch. You can also substitute ingredients like sesame oil with a neutral oil if you have allergies. Just be mindful that the flavor profile may shift a bit, but it will still be delicious!

How can I serve Squirrel Fish to maximize its appeal?
For a stunning presentation, serve your Squirrel Fish immediately after plating, drenching it with sauce and garnishing with blanched peas and fried pine nuts. Pair it with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a colorful, balanced meal that s sure to impress your guests.