Cha Ca (Vietnamese Turmeric Fish with Dill)

Experience the vibrant flavors of northern Vietnamese cuisine with Cha Ca, a fragrant dish featuring marinated fish infused with turmeric, ginger, and fish sauce, served sizzling with fresh dill and green onions. Traditionally from Hanoi, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory, herbal, and aromatic notes that make it a standout seafood specialty.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) firm white fish (such as catfish, tilapia, or halibut), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced shallots
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, crushed
• 1 bunch fresh dill, roughly chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
• Cooked rice noodles (bun), for serving
• Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro), for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish

   In a bowl, combine fish sauce, turmeric powder, garlic, shallots, ginger, sugar, salt, pepper, and vegetable oil. Add the fish pieces and toss gently to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Cook the Fish

   Heat a large nonstick skillet or clay pot over medium heat. Add a little oil if needed, then arrange the marinated fish in a single layer. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

3. Add the Dill and Green Onions

   Once the fish is cooked, add chopped dill and green onions directly to the pan. Gently stir to mix and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Assemble the Dish

   To serve, place a portion of rice noodles in each bowl. Top with the hot turmeric fish and plenty of the aromatic dill and onion mixture. Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and fresh herbs.

5. Serve

   Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side and, if desired, a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili.

Serving

Enjoy Cha Ca as the Vietnamese do — hot, fresh, and shared among friends and family. The combination of tender fish, earthy turmeric, and bright dill creates a dish that’s both comforting and refreshingly unique. Perfect for a flavorful dinner that brings a taste of Hanoi to your table.