Buttered Garlic Bangus with Bagoong

Crispy, golden fried bangus with rich butter-garlic sauce and savory bagoong, offering a bold and authentic Filipino flavor experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines crispy, buttery, and savory flavors in one dish
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Perfectly pairs with steamed rice for a satisfying meal
• A traditional Filipino favorite with a modern twist
• Customizable spice level with optional chili in the bagoong

Ingredients

For the Bangus:

• 1 large boneless bangus (milkfish), cleaned and butterflied
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (for dredging)
• Cooking oil (for frying)

For the Buttered Garlic Sauce:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Bagoong (Sautéed Shrimp Paste):

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1/2 cup bagoong alamang (fermented shrimp paste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 chili pepper, chopped (optional, for added spice)

Directions

1. Prepare the Bangus:
   • Season the bangus with salt and pepper. Dredge in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
   • Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the bangus until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
2. Make the Buttered Garlic Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
   • Add soy sauce, calamansi juice, sugar, and black pepper. Stir and simmer for 2 minutes. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Bagoong:
   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add onions and tomatoes; cook until softened.
   • Add bagoong alamang and cook for 3 minutes.
   • Stir in brown sugar, vinegar, and chili pepper (if using). Simmer for another 2 minutes.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Place the fried bangus on a serving platter. Pour the buttered garlic sauce over the fish.
   • Serve with sautéed bagoong on the side and steamed rice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving

Variations

• Healthier Option: Bake or air-fry the bangus instead of deep frying.
• Mild Flavor: Reduce the amount of bagoong for a less salty taste.
• Extra Crunch: Add crushed garlic chips as a topping.
• Tangy Twist: Increase calamansi juice for more acidity in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftover bangus and bagoong in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the bangus in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Warm the sauce and bagoong in a pan over low heat.
• Freezing: The cooked bangus can be frozen for up to a month; thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bangus for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat dry before frying for best results.

What can I use instead of bagoong?

You can serve it with a side of soy sauce with calamansi or a mild fish sauce dip.

Can I make this dish less salty?

Reduce the amount of bagoong and use low-sodium soy sauce in the garlic butter sauce.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Yes, add more chili to the bagoong or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the fish.

What side dishes go well with this?

Steamed vegetables, ensaladang talong (grilled eggplant salad), or fresh green mango slices pair well.

Can I grill the bangus instead of frying it?

Yes! Grilling gives a smoky flavor that works great with the buttered garlic sauce.

How do I make this dish keto-friendly?

Skip the cornstarch and sugar, and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I prepare the bagoong ahead of time?

Yes, bagoong can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

What type of vinegar is best for the bagoong?

White vinegar or cane vinegar works best for balancing the salty flavor.

Can I use other fish instead of bangus?

Yes, tilapia or galunggong (round scad) are great alternatives.

Conclusion

Buttered Garlic Bangus with Bagoong is a flavorful and satisfying Filipino dish that brings together crispy, buttery, and umami-rich elements. Whether served for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, savory taste of this classic favorite!