Filipino Sweet and Sour Fish is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring crispy golden-fried fish topped with a glossy sweet and tangy sauce. Loaded with colorful bell peppers, carrots, pineapple chunks, and aromatics like garlic and ginger, this classic Filipino favorite delivers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and sour in every bite.
Often served during family gatherings and special occasions, this escabeche-style dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Whether made with whole fried tilapia, snapper, or fillets, it’s a comforting homemade meal that brings festive flavors straight to your table.
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✅ Quick Tips: Read the recipe in its entirety before you start cooking. This will help you understand the ingredients, steps, and timing involved, and allow you to prepare any necessary equipment or ingredients beforehand.
Filipino Sweet and Sour Fish is a classic escabeche-style dish featuring deep-fried whole fish or fillets smothered in a glossy sauce made with vinegar, brown sugar, banana ketchup, and pineapple. Loaded with colorful bell peppers, carrots, garlic, and ginger, this dish delivers the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. It’s a popular choice for family dinners, holidays, and special gatherings, best served hot with steamed rice.
Season the fish inside and out with salt and pepper. Lightly coat with cornstarch, shaking off excess.
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the fish until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons oil.
Sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant.
Add carrots and bell peppers. Cook for about 1–2 minutes.
Pour in vinegar and let it boil uncovered for 2–3 minutes (do not stir) to cook off the sharp acidity.
Add brown sugar, banana ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple chunks, and water. Stir and bring to a simmer.
Add the cornstarch slurry and stir gently until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Place the fried fish on a serving platter and pour the sweet and sour sauce generously over the top.
Serve hot with steamed rice.
Servings 1
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
👉 Choose a fish around 1½ to 2½ pounds, cleaned and scaled.
