[Video/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Silvery pomfret is a Hai'an staple during the Spring Festival, as its Chinese name "chang" sounds the same as the word for "thriving" and "prosperous".

Silvery pomfret. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Due to its bad temper, silvery pomfret is among the hardest fishes in the world to raise. It not only tastes delicious, but also is highly nutritious. Rich in unsaturated fattyacids as well as the microelements selenium and magnesium, silvery pomfret can reduce cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular disease.

Steamed silvery pomfret. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Steaming is the best way to fully enjoy the fish's unique flavor. First, cut a few slices of the fish, add some salt, cooking wine, chopped green onions, and sliced ginger to it, and then steam it for about 10 minutes.

The final step is to pour almost-boiled oil over the green onions and ginger on the fish after it is well steamed to bring out their flavor.

Braised silvery pomfret with soy sauce. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Braised silvery pomfret with soy sauce is the classic way to eat it. Fry the fish after preserving it with yellow wine, light soy sauce, green onions and ginger for a while and then put some cooking wine, more light soy sauce, white sugar, salt, and chili on it before cooking on high heat until the soup becomes thick.