Delicious Steamed Snapper Fish Recipe for Any Cook

Published: 31 May 2025

Cooking fish can be tricky, especially when aiming for a tender, flavorful result. Overcooked snapper can quickly become dry and tough, resulting in a less-than-appealing meal. If you’ve struggled to get your snapper right, steaming offers a foolproof solution. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps for creating a perfectly steamed snapper that’s moist, tender, and flavorful.

Table of Content

How to Make Steamed Snapper Fish

The steamed snapper fish recipe is a healthy and delicious dish enjoyed across many cultures, from the Caribbean to East Asia. This cooking method preserves the fish’s natural flavors while infusing it with aromatic herbs and spices. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll prepare perfectly steamed snapper fish with variations from different culinary traditions.

What You’ll Need

Basic Equipment

Large pot with lid or dedicated steamer
Heat-proof plate (for Chinese-style steaming)
Kitchen shears
Sharp knife
Cutting board

Common Ingredients for Steamed Snapper

1 whole snapper fish (1-2 pounds), cleaned and scaled
Fresh herbs (thyme, cilantro, or parsley)
Aromatics (ginger, garlic, scallions/green onions)
Citrus (lime or lemon)
Salt and pepper
Cooking oil

Selecting Your Snapper

For the best results, follow these tips when selecting your fish:

Look for clear, bright eyes (a sign of freshness)
The skin should be shiny with vibrant colors
Gills should be bright red, not dull brown
The fish should have a mild, ocean-like smell (not a strong “fishy” odor)
If possible, select a fish that’s still alive (especially for Chinese-style preparation)
Red snapper is commonly used, but other snapper varieties work well too

Preparing the Fish

Basic Preparation

If not already done by your fishmonger, clean the fish thoroughly:
- Remove scales by scraping against the grain with a knife.
- Cut off rigid fins with kitchen shears (for Chinese style, keep the tail and head intact)
- Remove any remaining gills.
- Clean out the cavity, removing bloodlines and membranes.
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Pat the fish dry with paper towels.
Make 3-4 diagonal slashes on each side of the fish, about ½-inch deep (this helps the fish cook evenly and allows flavors to penetrate)

Two Popular Steaming Methods

1. Caribbean-Style Steamed Snapper (Simmered Method)

This method is popular in Jamaica and across the Caribbean. Despite being called “steamed,” it’s a gentle simmering technique.

Ingredients:

1 whole snapper (1-2 pounds), cleaned and prepared
Juice of 1 lime
2 teaspoons all-purpose seasoning
3 cloves garlic, sliced
8-10 sprigs fresh thyme
1/2 tablespoon butter
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1/2 each: red, green, and yellow bell peppers, thinly sliced
2 scallions, chopped
1 medium tomato, cut into wedges
8-12 okra, ends trimmed
1 hot pepper (scotch bonnet or habanero), seeds removed (optional)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups water or fish stock
2-3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Place the fish in a bowl with water and lime juice for about 10 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
Season the fish with all-purpose seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stuff the cavity with sliced garlic and some thyme sprigs. Let marinate for 20-30 minutes.
Add oil and butter to a large, wide pot over medium heat. When the butter has melted, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and other vegetables (like carrots) until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add water or fish stock and bring to a boil. Once boiling, carefully place the seasoned fish in the pot.
On top of the fish, add okra, tomatoes, hot pepper (if using), remaining thyme, and scallions.
Cover the pot, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. You may need to cook for up to 20 minutes for larger fish.
Occasionally, spoon some of the cooking liquid over the fish while it cooks.
Once cooked, carefully remove the fish to a serving plate, arrange the vegetables around it, and spoon some of the flavorful cooking liquid.

Garnish with fresh parsley or additional chopped scallions and serve hot. Steamed snapper fish pairs well with steamed rice or a fresh salad.

2. Chinese-Style Steamed Snapper

This method uses pure steam to cook the fish, producing a delicate texture and clean flavor.

Ingredients:

1 whole snapper (1-2 pounds), cleaned and prepared
3 tablespoons fresh ginger, julienned
4-6 scallions/green onions, separated into white and green parts
2 tablespoons Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
3 tablespoons light soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon white pepper
2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

Set up your steaming apparatus: You can use a wok with a steaming rack or a dedicated steamer or improvise with a large pot and a heat-proof plate above the water level.
Bring water to a boil in your steaming vessel.
Place the cleaned fish on a heat-proof plate that will fit in your steamer. The plate should have a rim to catch the juices.
Half of the ginger slices and a couple of scallions should be stuffed inside the fish cavity. Then, pour the Chinese cooking wine over the fish.
Carefully place the plate with the fish into the steamer. Cover and steam over high heat for 8-10 minutes for a 1-2 pound fish. The exact timing depends on the size and thickness of your fish. The fish is done when the meat turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, but the bone is still slightly translucent.
When the fish is cooked, carefully remove the plate from the steamer. Drain any accumulated liquid.
Sprinkle the fish with half of the remaining julienned ginger, the green parts of the scallions, and the cilantro.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sugar, salt, white pepper, and water. Heat the oil in a small pan until hot, then add the remaining ginger and stir until fragrant. Add the soy sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. Finally, add the white parts of the scallions.
Pour the hot sauce evenly over the fish and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfectly Steamed Snapper

Freshness matters: The fresher the fish, the better the flavor. Try to cook your snapper the same day you purchase it.
Proper fish preparation: Clean the fish thoroughly and make diagonal slashes on both sides to ensure even cooking.
Timing is crucial: Overcooking will make the fish dry and tough. Use the chopstick test – it’s done if it slides through the thickest part of the fish without resistance.
Take the fish out of the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature for more even cooking.
Keep the lid on: Once you start steaming, avoid removing the lid, as this releases the steam and disrupts the cooking process.
Steam setup: Ensure your fish is elevated above the water level in your steaming apparatus.
Serving suggestion: Transfer the cooked fish to a fresh, warmed plate before serving for the best presentation.

Variations

Thai-Style Steamed Snapper

Add lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil, and a spicy sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and Thai chilies.

Mediterranean-Style Steamed Snapper

Use olive oil, lemon, garlic, oregano, and olives. Serve with good olive oil and fresh herbs like parsley and dill.

Japanese-Style Steamed Snapper

Steam with sake, mirin, and kombu, then serve with a ponzu sauce and grated daikon radish.

Nutritional Benefits

Steamed snapper is not only delicious but also highly nutritious:

High in lean protein
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
It is a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and potassium
Low in calories, especially when steamed

Conclusion

Steamed snapper is a simple, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy fish at home. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can master how to make steamed snapper fish in just a few easy steps. Try your favorite style—Caribbean, Chinese, or Thai—and enjoy a delicious, nutrient-rich meal every time. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this steamed snapper recipe is sure to impress. Keep experimenting with herbs, spices, and sides to make it your own!

FAQ: Steamed Snapper Fish Recipe

How do I know when my fish is done?

Use a chopstick or fork to check the thickest part of the fish. If it goes through without resistance, the fish is done. The meat should be opaque and flake easily.

Can I use fish fillets instead of whole fish?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness. Fillets cook much faster than whole fish.

What can I serve with steamed snapper?

Rice is a classic accompaniment, but you can serve it with quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple salad or steamed vegetables make great sides.

How do I deal with the bones?

When the fish is cooked correctly, the meat should easily separate from the bones. Start by removing the top fillet from the spine, then lift out the central backbone before enjoying the bottom fillet.

Can I use frozen snapper for steaming?

Yes, you can use frozen snapper for steaming. However, it’s important to thaw the fish properly before cooking to ensure even cooking. Place the fish in the refrigerator overnight to melt, or run it under cold water for a quicker thaw. Avoid microwaving or using hot water, as this can affect the texture of the fish.

What are some good seasoning options for steamed snapper?

For a simple yet flavorful steamed snapper, you can use garlic, ginger, lemon, and a mix of herbs like cilantro or parsley. Adding soy sauce, sesame oil, or fish sauce can enhance the savory flavor, while a sprinkle of chili flakes can provide a mild kick. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.

How long should I steam snapper fish?

The steaming time for snapper depends on its thickness, but generally, it takes about 10-15 minutes. You’ll want to steam the fish until it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Oversteaming can dry the fish, so keep an eye on it, especially for thinner fillets.

Can I steam snapper with vegetables?

Yes, steaming snapper with vegetables is a great way to create a complete meal. Vegetables like bok choy, carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers complement the fish beautifully. Place the vegetables in the steaming basket underneath the fish, ensuring the steam circulates and cooks them evenly.

How can I ensure the snapper stays moist when steaming?

To keep your snapper moist while steaming, lightly coat it with olive oil or a small amount of butter before steaming. This helps lock in moisture. Wrapping the fish in parchment paper or banana leaves can also help retain moisture and add flavor during the steaming process.

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