Fried Fish with Rice, Eggplant & Salted Egg Salad

 Introduction

This dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines crispy fried fish, savory garlic rice, and tender roasted eggplant, paired with a vibrant salted egg salad. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors—crispy, soft, tangy, and slightly salty—making it a popular home-style meal that feels both hearty and satisfying.

 Ingredients

For the fried fish:

• 2 whole small fish (cleaned)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup oil (for frying)

For the garlic rice:

• 3 cups cooked white rice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt to taste

For the eggplant:

• 2 pieces eggplant (sliced lengthwise)
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Pinch of salt

For the salted egg salad:

• 2 salted eggs (chopped)
• 1 small red onion (sliced)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (or green mango/potato variation)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar or calamansi juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For dipping sauce:

• Soy sauce or fish sauce
• Chili (optional)

 Instructions

1. Fry the fish
   Season the fish with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove and drain excess oil.
2. Prepare garlic rice
   Heat oil in a pan, sauté garlic until golden and fragrant. Add cooked rice and mix well. Season with salt and stir until evenly heated.
3. Cook the eggplant
   Heat a little oil in a pan and cook the eggplant slices until soft and slightly charred. Sprinkle with a bit of salt.
4. Make the salted egg salad
   In a bowl, combine chopped salted eggs, onions, and tomatoes. Add vinegar or calamansi juice, then season with salt and pepper. Mix gently.
5. Serve
   Arrange garlic rice on a plate, add fried fish, eggplant on the side, and a serving of salted egg salad. Serve with dipping sauce.

 Conclusion

This fried fish meal is simple yet packed with flavor, perfect for everyday dining or when you want something comforting and homemade. The combination of crispy fish, aromatic rice, and fresh salad creates a well-rounded dish that’s sure to satisfy every bite. Try it once, and it might become a regular favorite on your table!